Primary finding
Probable cause
The engine power loss for undetermined reasons and the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the operator, the pilot experienced a complete power loss after liftoff from a private agricultural strip. He subsequently executed a forced landing, straight ahead, into rough terrain. The engine was disposed of prior to the reason for the failure being determined. The engine had recently been installed in the airplane and had accumulated a total of 2.7 hours since major overhaul.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 15, 1993, at approximately 1030 central daylight time, a Rockwell International S-2R, N4955X, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Wynne, Arkansas. The airplane had just departed on what was to have been a local aerial application flight. There was no flight plan filed and visual meteorological conditions prevailed throughout the area. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. According to the operator, the pilot experienced a complete power loss after liftoff from a private ag strip. He subsequently executed a forced landing, straight ahead, into rough terrain. The operator disposed of the wreckage prior to a determination being made as to the cause of the engine failure. However, it was noted that there was fuel on the airplane at the time and the pilot stated that the power loss came without warning. The engine had been recently installed and had accumulated a total of 2.7 hours since major overhaul. -