Beech A36 N729CW accident near Blackshear, Georgia

Probable cause

A catastrophic engine failure due to oil starvation, which resulted in a total loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, as the flight was climbing through about 11,000 ft msl, he noticed a reduction in engine power, followed by a loss of oil pressure before the engine started to run rough and eventually seized. The pilot made a forced landing to a road; the airplane struck a tree while landing, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing and engine mounts.

Postaccident examination of the engine revealed a hole in the top of the case along with a large amount of metallic debris in the oil sump. Although a large amount of residual oil was found inside the engine cowling, no oil was observed on the belly of the airplane. The oil filler cap was found secured. When the engine was disassembled, the camshaft was found sheared and there was extensive damage to the connecting rods, consistent with oil starvation. All of the oil ports were clear except for the No. 5 connecting rod journal, which was welded over from heat during the failure sequence. All of the oil line fittings were tight and pumps were found secure and operational. No mechanical deficiencies, leaks, or loose fittings were observed with the turbocharger.

Based on the evidence, oil starvation likely resulted in the catastrophic engine failure and total loss of power; however, the reason for the oil starvation, such as a blockage or malfunction of the oil system, could not be determined due to extensive heat and mechanical damage.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA24LA143 for the full record.