Probable cause
A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while the airplane was on short final to the runway, he increased power to maintain the glideslope and then heard a muffled "bang or chug," followed by the engine sounding "as if it were drowning." The airplane started to descend, and the pilot executed an off-airport landing. During the landing sequence, the left wing impacted a fence. The airplane then crossed a median and came to rest against a second fence. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14LA337 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 10, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fresno, California
- Nearest airport
- Sierra Sky Park Airport (E79)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Ryan NAVION
- N-number
- N4533K
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1948
- 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.