Beechcraft V-35A | N150WR

The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be Pilot Error, in that the pilot flew a route at an altitude and path such that a loss of thrust at any point would not provide any suitable options. A loss of thrust did occur and the pilot elected to attempt a gear down landing on a nearby road. The aircraft impacted a utility pole and became engulfed in flames almost immediately. All were able to escape with serious injury, except the female passenger who occupied the aft left seat. Rescue attempts to remove her from the burning wreckage were not successful due to the fire that ensued.

Probable Cause issued 4/29/2026 – 22 months after the accident: A total loss of engine power due to oil starvation as a result of loose turbocharger oil line fittings.

The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft operate their aircraft where possible on routes and altitudes that would support a safe off airport landing during any loss of thrust scenario. The DTSB also recommends that the aircraft be landed wings level, full flaps, with landing gear retracted in open areas that do not contain fixed obstructions in these abnormal scenarios. The highest danger during forced landing is often the vehicles, poles, and fixed obstructions always associated with roadways. The landing gear extended only makes the total distance significantly longer, thereby increasing chances of striking an object after touchdown. The DTSB recommends that pilots select gear up, full flaps, slowest speed possible, most open and unobstructed terrain available for all off airport landing emergencies.