Beech A36 N8137P accident near Harrison, Arkansas

Probable cause

A loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported the airplane was topped off with fuel before the flight. He reported that the flight was normal, and he switched fuel tanks when he reached the initial approach fix for the instrument approach. The pilot then canceled his instrument clearance and continued a visual approach to the airport that was normal until he was on short final when the engine stopped producing power. The pilot stated he made one attempt to restore the engine power, which included switching fuel tanks. Unable to restore engine power, the pilot performed a forced landing to a field about one mile short of the runway. During the forced landing the airplane’s fuselage was substantially damaged and a postimpact fire ensued, consuming a majority of the fuselage.

A postaccident examination of the engine revealed the engine had been exposed to the postimpact fire. Valvetrain continuity was established throughout the engine. The magnetos and spark plugs were functionally tested and performed normally. The cylinders were examined with a borescope and showed signs of normal wear. The engine fuel components were examined and appeared clear of debris. The remainder of the airplane’s fuel system could not be tested due to the postimpact fire. All of the metal propeller blades had chordwise scratches observed on the cambered side as well as nicks and gouges on the leading edges indicative of the propeller producing some amount of power at impact. The engine examination did not reveal any malfunction or failure that would have precluded normal operation of the engine; therefore, the cause of the reported loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA066 for the full record.