Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to the failure of the number one engine cylinder for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot was on departure from initial takeoff when the engine "popped" several times and stopped producing power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a rice field off the departure end of the runway. The pilot found the number one cylinder head cracked during a postaccident examination of the airplane. Additional examination of the airplane revealed damage to the left aileron and both horizontal stabilizers. Additional examination of the cracked cylinder head could not be accomplished and a cause of the failure was not determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA239 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 7, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Corning, Arkansas
- Nearest airport
- Corning Municipal Airport (4M9)
- Highest injury
- None
Air Tractor Inc AT-301
- N-number
- N36597
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Ferry
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.