Accident Overview
On July 21, 2024, at approximately 1933 eastern daylight time, a Champion 7ECA airplane, registration N9581S, was substantially damaged in an accident near Beaufort, North Carolina. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries, while the passenger suffered serious injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that at departure from Horse Feathers Airport (53VA) in Midland, Virginia, destined for Michael J. Smith Field Airport (MRH) in Beaufort, North Carolina, the airplane had about 32 gallons of fuel onboard. Approximately 2½ hours after departure, the pilot noted a momentary surge of engine power. This engine anomaly repeated several times before the engine lost power completely. Unable to restore engine power, the pilot executed a forced landing onto a road. During the landing, the left wing struck a pole, and the airplane came to rest inverted about 3 miles northwest of MRH.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The wreckage was retained for further examination.