Primary finding
Probable cause
Separation of the propeller while in flight, and unsuitable terrain to effect a forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane was in cruise flight when propeller separated. The pilot made a forced landing in a soft field with high grass. The landing gear sank into the ground during the rollout, and the airplane nosed over. The investigation revealed that four of six propeller retaining bolts were cracked and rusted across their diameter in amounts varying from 30 to 100%.
Source record
Factual narrative
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