NTSB Factual Report

On August 5, 2017, about 1000 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 140, N89738, was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a total loss of power near Mount Sterling, Kentucky. The private pilot sustained serious injuries. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local flight that departed Stanton Airport (I50), Stanton, Kentucky.

The pilot reported to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, that while flying at an altitude of 2,200 ft, and the engine operating at 2,400 rpm with the mixture leaned, when the engine experienced a total loss of power. He made a forced landing to a flat, 15-acre field, and after touchdown the airplane went over a fence and down a hill before impacting a creek.

Initial examination of the airplane by the FAA inspector revealed substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.

The two-seat, high wing, tailwheel-equipped airplane, was powered by a Lycoming O-235, 116-horsepower engine.

The pilot held a private pilot certificate with a rating for airplane single-engine land. He reported 1,200 hours of total flight experience on his most recent application for an FAA third-class medical certificate, which was issued on August 3, 2016.

The 1255 weather at Mount Sterling Montgomery County Airport (I50), about 9 miles northwest of the accident site included wind from 100° at 6 knots; visibility 10 statute miles; temperature 22° C; dew point 11° C; and altimeter setting 30.18 inches of mercury.

The airplane was recovered and retained for further examination.