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Casualties unknown

Engine failure due to missing oil plug causes forced landing (N44294)

Leggett, TX, US

On June 21, 1983, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N44294) operated by Aero Flying Club, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Leggett, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure resulting from a lack of oil, which was caused by the absence of the oil drain plug. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

Aircraft was damaged in a forced landing after engine failure at 2500 feet. Investigation revealed a missing oil drain plug led to piston failure.

What happened

The aircraft experienced an engine failure while cruising at an altitude of 2500 feet, necessitating a forced landing. The pilot successfully landed the aircraft in an open field. Post-accident inspection revealed significant internal damage consistent with oil starvation.

The investigation

A post-accident examination disclosed that the engine's oil drain plug was missing. This absence led to a complete loss of lubrication, resulting in the failure of two pistons. The aircraft had undergone a 100-hour inspection and an oil change approximately 11 hours of flight time prior to the accident.

Findings

The primary contributing factor was fuel exhaustion due to mechanical failure caused by the missing drain plug. The recent maintenance did not prevent the oversight that led to the loss of engine lubrication.

Probable cause

Engine failure resulting from a lack of oil, which was caused by the absence of the oil drain plug.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jun 1983 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Leggett, TX?

Aircraft was damaged in a forced landing after engine failure at 2500 feet. Investigation revealed a missing oil drain plug led to piston failure.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jun 1983 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N44294, operated by Aero Flying Club, Inc., at Leggett, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure resulting from a lack of oil, which was caused by the absence of the oil drain plug.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43354. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.