Casualties unknown

Engine failure due to broken oil line causes forced landing (N42787)

Lantana, FL, US

On August 2, 1983, a Piper PA-28-151 (registration N42787) was involved in an aviation accident near Lantana, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the engine oil line due to fraying and breaking, which resulted in the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine failure. 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

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during flight after the co-instructor noticed zero oil pressure. The plane sustained substantial damage during a subsequent forced landing.

What happened

During the flight, the engine began to vibrate significantly. The certified flight instructor (CFI) observed that the oil pressure had dropped to zero. Consequently, the engine failed completely. The aircraft sustained substantial damage while executing a forced landing.

The investigation

A mechanical examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the cause of the failure. The inspection focused on the oil line with part number 63901-49. Investigators found that this component was frayed and broken. This failure allowed engine oil to be pumped out of the system, leading to the loss of pressure.

Findings

The aircraft had been annualized on June 6, 1983. This maintenance occurred approximately 11 flight hours prior to the engine failure. The breakage in the oil line was identified as the primary mechanical issue.

Probable cause

The failure of the engine oil line due to fraying and breaking, which resulted in the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Aug 1983 Piper PA-28-151 accident near Lantana, FL?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during flight after the co-instructor noticed zero oil pressure. The plane sustained substantial damage during a subsequent forced landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Aug 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-151, registration N42787, at Lantana, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the engine oil line due to fraying and breaking, which resulted in the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine failure.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44251. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.