Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the wwii vintage military airplane experienced a complete loss of engine power while climbing through 5,000 feet. The preselected forced landing area was beyond the gliding capabilities of the airplane, so the pilot elected to land straight ahead in a rough and uneven field. The fuselage was severed aft of the pilot's seat and both wings and the underside of the airplane were severely damaged. Examination of the engine failed to disclose any anomalies that could have prevented normal engine operation
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 1, 1993, at approximately 1540 central standard time, a Chance Vought F4U 4 airplane, N68HP, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following the loss of engine power, near Breckenridge, Texas. The commercial pilot, sole occupant of the airplane, sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight. According to the pilot, nearly an hour after his departure, the airplane was climbing through 5,000 feet, when without warning, the engine loss power. The pilot stated that he selected a suitable forced landing area as he established the best glide speed and completed the emergency procedures in an attempt to regain power. The preselected forced landing area was beyond the reach of the airplane, so the pilot elected to land straight ahead in an open field. After impacting small trees, the airplane impacted in rough and uneven terrain, went through a fence post and a fence, crossed a two lane highway, coming to rest on the shoulder of the highway, with the right wing partially blocking the right lane. The fuselage was severed just aft of the pilot's seat. Additionally, the underside of the fuselage and both wings were heavily damaged. -