Probable cause
The failure of the engine master rod, resulting in a total loss of engine power and a forced landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he heard a “loud bang” from the engine during cruise flight, which was followed by “severe vibration.” The pilot moved the throttle to idle, but the vibration got worse. The pilot then applied full throttle, and the engine seemed to run smoothly. However, the engine subsequently began to lose power, and the airplane was unable to maintain altitude. About 0.75 miles from the runway, the engine completely lost power, and the pilot executed a forced landing to a cornfield, during which the airplane nosed over which resulted in substantial damage to the upper left wing and struts. Partial disassembly of the engine revealed that the master rod, that connects the piston in one cylinder to the crankshaft, had failed.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA264 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 13, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Elwood, Nebraska
- Nearest airport
- Johnson Lake (2NE0)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Boeing B75N1
- N-number
- N777JG
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1942
- 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.