Accident Overview
On July 22, 2025, at about 1706 Pacific daylight time, a Beechcraft Bonanza V35, registration N3785Q, sustained substantial damage during an accident near Astoria, Oregon. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot and a passenger, who was a flight instructor, were not injured.
Flight Details
The pilot and flight instructor were en route to Astoria Regional Airport, Astoria, Oregon, to refuel during a cross-country flight to Arlington, Washington. While maneuvering for an approach to runway 26, approximately 400 feet above ground level and about 3 miles southeast of the airport, the engine began to sputter.
Engine Failure and Response
The pilot immediately advanced the mixture control, but the engine sputtered again and then lost all power. The flight instructor attempted to restart the engine without success. He then assumed control of the airplane to execute a forced landing.
Landing and Damage
The airplane touched down on a gravel road short of runway 26, overran an embankment, and came to rest in a field. Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the lower fuselage.
Recovery
The airplane was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.