He Moved The Throttle To Idle; However, The Shaking Seemed To Get Worse

Location: Elwood, NE Accident Number: CEN21LA264
Date & Time: June 13, 2021, 13:30 Local Registration: N777JG
Aircraft: Boeing B75N1 Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On June 13, 2021, about 1330 central daylight time, a Boeing B75N1 Stearman airplane, N777JG, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Elwood, Nebraska. The pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that he had been flying for about 2 hours with no issues. While in cruise flight about 1,000 ft above ground level, he experienced a “loud bang” and the engine started shaking. He moved the throttle to idle; however, the shaking seemed to get worse. He applied full throttle and the shaking smoothed out. The pilot attempted to divert to a grass airstrip but was unable to maintain altitude. He executed a forced landing to a corn field about 1/2-mile from the airstrip. The landing gear dug into the soft dirt and the airplane nosed over. The wings were substantially damaged.

A postaccident engine examination is planned.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov