Beech F35 N4219B accident near Ravenna, Texas

Probable cause

Electrical and engine problems for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.

NTSB analysis

While in cruise flight and after the pilot engaged the autopilot, a portable air conditioning unit was plugged into the airplane’s electrical system. When the unit was plugged into the system, the pilot heard a loud noise like a “firecracker” from the engine compartment, and the autopilot disengaged. The pilot ran the emergency checklist for an electrical failure and noticed a drop in engine rpm. Attempts to rectify the electrical issue and regain engine rpms were unsuccessful.

The pilot located a private 3,000 ft grass airstrip to land on. As he approached the airstrip, he noticed a stack of large round hay bales on the edge of the runway. The pilot felt that trying to pull up over the bales would induce a stall, so he turned to the right just as the airplane touched down. About 100 ft after the airplane touched down, the left wing impacted the hay bales, which caused the airplane to spin left and come to a sudden stop. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.

A postaccident examination of the airplane electrical systems did not determine the reasons for the reported electrical problems. The examination of the engine revealed that it was poorly maintained; however, it was not clear if this condition resulted in the loss of engine rpm or if the loss in rpm was related to the electrical system.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA262 for the full record.