Beech C23 N2248L accident near Elko, Nevada

Probable cause

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

NTSB analysis

The accident flight was the airplane’s first flight since its recent annual inspection. The pilot reported that there were about 25 gallons of fuel in the wing tanks during the preflight inspection. During the initial climb after takeoff, about 300 to 400 ft above the runway, the engine lost total power. The pilot maneuvered the airplane to an open field, and during the subsequent forced landing, the right wing and propeller impacted the ground. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

Examination of the airplane at the accident site revealed adequate fuel for normal operation in both wing tanks, and the presence of fuel in components that had been impact-separated from the engine.

A follow-up examination revealed no anomalies with the engine or fuel system that would have precluded normal operation during the accident flight. Organic material (bougainvillea leaves and insect larvae) was found in some fuel system components; however, it is likely that this occurred during the several months that the wreckage was in storage before examination. The examination also revealed damage to the starter that was consistent with impact damage.

Given the lack of anomalies found during the postaccident examination, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA259 for the full record.