What happened
On December 20, 2025, a Cirrus SR22, registration N242AZ, was involved in an accident near Springfield, Missouri. The flight originated from General Dewitt Spain Airport (M01) in Memphis, Tennessee, departing at approximately 11:30 CST.
While cruising at 8,000 feet MSL, the pilot received a Crew Alerting System (CAS) message indicating a high turbine inlet temperature (TIT). The pilot responded by following the appropriate checklist and reducing fuel flow, which cleared the CAS message, but the engine subsequently began running rough. Although engine instruments indicated normal operation, the roughness increased over time.
The pilot decided to divert to Springfield – Branson National Airport (S/GF) and began a descent. During the descent, reducing power caused the engine to perform significantly worse. The pilot maintained the airplane's best glide speed and prepared for a forced landing on a roadway. During the maneuver, the pilot attempted to move the power lever forward, but the engine failed to provide thrust.
The aircraft landed in the southbound lanes of US 65, approximately 9 miles east-northeast of SGF. During the landing, the left wing struck a road sign, and the aircraft crossed the highway median before coming to rest upright in the northbound lanes. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger, who both exited the aircraft without incident. A post-accident fire occurred, partially consuming the aircraft. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.