Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Forces Emergency Landing in Farm Field (N5541J)

Woodstock, IL, US

On August 24, 1984, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N5541J) was involved in an aviation accident near Woodstock, IL. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, leading to a forced landing in a farm field. The right main gear sheared off, nose gear bent, and left wing substantially damaged. Post-accident inspection revealed metal chips in the oil filter and heat-scorched connecting rod bearings.

Accident Overview

During a forced landing in a farm field, the aircraft collided with terrain, resulting in substantial damage. The right main landing gear was sheared off, the nose gear was bent, and the left wing sustained substantial damage.

Flight Conditions

Visual meteorological conditions (VMC) prevailed at the time of the accident. No flight plan was filed for the flight.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of 3,000 feet MSL, the engine began running rough. He turned back toward the departure airport, but en route, the engine lost all power.

Engine Examination

A post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that the oil filter contained fine chips of aluminum. The oil pump appeared to be operable. Examination of the connecting rod bearings showed that all six bearings were heat scorched.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Aug 1984 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Woodstock, IL?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, leading to a forced landing in a farm field. The right main gear sheared off, nose gear bent, and left wing substantially damaged. Post-accident inspection revealed metal chips in the oil filter and heat-scorched connecting rod bearings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Aug 1984 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N5541J, at Woodstock, IL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40648. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.