Primary finding
Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated the engine quit during flight, so he landed the airplane in a river and swam ashore. The airplane was submerged for more than 24-hours before being recovered. After recovery the airframe and engine were examined, but water, impact, and recovery damage inhibited thorough examinations. The fuel system was completely contaminated by water, and it could not be determined if fuel was present at the time of the accident. Examination of the electrical system could not be performed due to water damage. No obvious mechanical anomalies with the airframe or engine were found, and the reason for the reported loss of engine power could not be determined.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 18, 2019, about 0847 eastern daylight time, a Flightstar FC-II, N354AR, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Knoxville, Tennessee. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was being operated under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. The pilot was conducting a flight near the Sky Ranch Airport (TN98), Knoxville, Tennessee, when the engine quit. He landed the airplane in the Tennessee River, exited the airplane, and swam ashore. After the accident, the pilot commented to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector that he landed the airplane in the water due to electrical and engine problems. The FAA inspector who examined the airplane after its recovery reported that the airplane was submerged in turbulent water for more than 24 hours and was mostly destroyed either by water impact or recovery damage. The fuel system was completely contaminated by water, and it could not be determined if fuel was present at the time of the accident. Examinations of the electrical system could not be performed due to the water damage. Other than the severe impact and recovery damage, no obvious mechanical anomalies were observed with the airframe or engine. The pilot did not submit a National Transportation Safety Board Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report Form 6120.1.