Incident Overview
A pilot-in-command and a student pilot were conducting an aerial photography flight when the pilot-in-command observed a loss of engine oil pressure. They sighted Meadowlark Airport and initiated an emergency approach. The pilot-in-command reported that she transferred her pilot-in-command duties to the student, believing he possessed greater flying experience. The student had informed her that he was a former military pilot but had not obtained a civilian pilot certificate.
Sequence of Events
During the final approach, the aircraft was too high, prompting the student to execute a go-around and a 360-degree turn. While turning, he retracted the flaps, later found to be at 10 degrees. Subsequently, the aircraft mushed into the roof of a house and then crashed into a fence and patio of an adjacent home.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the aircraft revealed oil on the underside of the fuselage. The oil drain sump plug, a quick-drain type, was found in the open position, and no oil was present in the sump. The forward oil breather tube was clogged. Bearing babbit material was found in the sump. The oil drain O-ring was worn; when cleaned and tested, the sump plug leaked.