Primary finding
Probable cause
Loss of engine power due to failure of the magnetos. A factor in the accident was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that the engine began to run rough during cruise. He checked the magnetos, and found that the left magneto had failed. Shortly thereafter the engine began to lose more power, and the other magneto began to fail. During the forced landing the wing hit a tree.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 24, 1995, about 1255 eastern daylight time, N81222, a Fairchild 24W-46, registered to the pilot, crashed in Callahan, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the pilot, the sole occupant, reported no injuries. The flight originated from Moultrie, Georgia, about 1200 the same day. The pilot stated the engine began to run rough and he was able to determine one magneto was inoperative. Shortly thereafter the engine began to lose more power. He then initiated a precautionary landing to a road, due to loss of engine power. During the landing the wing struck a tree and damaged the wing and lift struts. -