Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to the total failure of the number 2 cylinder.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, he was taking off from a private airstrip with a full load of fertilizer when he "lost the number 2 cylinder." Due to the loss of engine power, during the ensuing forced landing the pilot was unable to keep the airplane from striking a levy. Both main landing gears, hopper, gate box, fertilizer spreader, and tailwheel assembly were torn off. The left wing tip was bent, and the engine mount was broken. An examination of the airplane revealed a fractured number 2 cylinder head. Flight control continuity was confirmed. No other anomalies were found.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DEN08LA105 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 19, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Garwood, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Anf Air Service (NONE)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Air Tractor AT-301A
- N-number
- N3166H
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Destroyed
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
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.