Incident Overview
While en route from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to Farmingdale, New York, the pilot of a single-engine aircraft encountered engine problems. The pilot notified air traffic control (ATC) of the situation and was vectored toward Norfolk, Virginia, for an emergency landing.
Descent and Landing Attempt
The aircraft descended from an altitude of 8,000 feet to 3,000 feet during the emergency. At that point, the pilot determined that reaching Norfolk Airport was not possible. An emergency landing was attempted in an open field. The aircraft crash landed, resulting in substantial damage; the aircraft was destroyed.
Occupants and Injuries
Both occupants aboard the aircraft sustained serious injuries in the crash landing.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure during normal cruise due to piston rings failure. The following contributing factors were reported:
- Material failure
- Failed to maintain flying speed
- Improper in-flight decisions
- Complete engine failure
- Forced landing off airport on land
- Number two cylinder piston failed
- Pilot descended from 8,000 to 3,000 feet 12 miles from field with right engine shut down