Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to cracked engine cylinder.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot departed from a private airstrip for a local aerial application flight. Shortly after takeoff, the engine experienced a loss of power and the pilot elected to turn towards a field and perform a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane received major structural damage. A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that a cylinder on the radial engine was cracked, resulting in the loss of engine power. No other anomalies with the airplane were found. At the time this report was completed, the pilot had not submitted NTSB form 6120.1, Pilot/Operator Accident/Incident Report, as requested.
Source record
Factual narrative
The commercial pilot departed from a private airstrip for a local aerial application flight. Shortly after take-off, the engine lost power and the pilot elected to turn towards a field for the forced landing. During the landing, the airplane received major structural damage. A post-accident examination of the engine revealed that a cylinder on the radial engine was cracked resulting in the loss of engine power. No other anomalies with the airplane were found. At the time this report was completed, the pilot had not submitted NTSB form 6120.1, Pilot/Operator Accident/Incident Report as requested