On December 22, 1982, a Cessna 172N (registration N609CW) operated by Clanton Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Clanton, AL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft in high-speed glide touched down briefly on a pasture at the top of a knoll before dropping below the rise and crashing into a wooded area. Post-crash examination revealed engine cracks and a failed oil pump drive gear.
Incident Sequence
The aircraft was observed in a high-speed glide, descending toward a pasture located at the top of a knoll. It touched down briefly on the pasture, then dropped below the rise and crashed in a wooded area adjacent to the pasture.
Engine Examination
Examination of the engine revealed a crack extending from the top forward hold-down bolt on the right front cylinder through the push rod opening to the top of the crankcase. The top forward hold-down bolt was sheared off and came loose when touched. A separate crack was found on the left side, extending from approximately 1 inch aft of the front cylinder hold-down bolt upward between the push rod housings to the top of the crankcase. Disassembly of the engine further revealed that the oil pump drive gear had failed.
What happened in the 22 Dec 1982 Cessna 172N accident near Clanton, AL?
An aircraft in high-speed glide touched down briefly on a pasture at the top of a knoll before dropping below the rise and crashing into a wooded area. Post-crash examination revealed engine cracks and a failed oil pump drive gear.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Dec 1982 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N609CW, operated by Clanton Flying Service, at Clanton, AL.
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