Probable cause
A loss of engine power for a reason that could not be determined.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff from his private airstrip, the airplane’s engine lost partial power. He activated the electric fuel pump at which time the engine lost all power. The pilot attempted to return to his private airport but landed short with the landing gear retracted in a cotton field. The airplane's forward fuselage was substantially damaged. Examination of the airplane after the accident did not reveal any preimpact anomalies that would explain the loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20LA346 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 16, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- San Benito, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Kornegay Private (53XS)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Beech 36
- N-number
- N3256V
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1995
- 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.