Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to failure of the No. 1 cylinder piston for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the personal flight stated that, after departure, the cockpit filled with smoke and the airplane then experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to return to the departure airport but landed in a field short of the airport runway; the airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. Postaccident examination of the engine revealed the No. 1 piston was broken in two pieces, and the piston crank link was bent. The reason for the failures was unknown.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA107 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 29, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cabool, Missouri
- Nearest airport
- Cabool Memorial Airport (TVB)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built CH601
- N-number
- N601ND
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2013
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.