Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Powerlines During Forced Landing After Propeller Separation (N4874R)

New Hope, AL, US

On April 26, 1983, a Cessna A-188B (registration N4874R) was involved in an aviation accident near New Hope, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the crankshaft in fatigue and separation at the oil slinger flange. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on an aerial application mission struck powerlines and crashed during an emergency landing following a loss of power caused by propeller separation. The pilot reported oil on the windshield before the incident.

Accident Overview

An aircraft conducting aerial spraying operations experienced a loss of power and struck powerlines during an emergency landing, resulting in a crash.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported that while spraying, oil began covering the windshield. He initiated a climb and dumped the chemical load. Shortly thereafter, the propeller separated from the aircraft. During the subsequent forced landing, the tailwheel struck a powerline, and the aircraft touched down in a tail-low attitude.

Examination Findings

Examination of the aircraft revealed that the crankshaft had failed due to fatigue and separated at the oil slinger flange.

Additional Information

The accident occurred during an aerial application mission. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or operator were provided in the source.

Probable cause

Failure of the crankshaft in fatigue and separation at the oil slinger flange.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42612. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.