Probable cause
The partial loss of engine power due to a crack in the No. 1 cylinder for unknown reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that immediately after takeoff he noted a difference in the sound of the engine and that the engine speed started to decrease. The airplane was unable to climb above obstacles along the flight path, and the pilot elected to conduct a forced landing. During the forced landing the right wing struck a tree, and the airplane came to rest in a field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.
A postaccident engine examination revealed a crack between the No. 1cylinder head and bore. The engine likely lost power due to this crack; however, the origin of the crack was not identified.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA176 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 3, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Pearland, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Skyway Manor (T79)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Beech B35
- N-number
- N5240C
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1950
- 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.