On September 24, 1985, a Cessna 172N (registration N4688D) was involved in an aviation accident near Hollywood, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The propeller blade separated from the hub due to fatigue cracking. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot experienced severe vibration shortly after takeoff from Fort Lauderdale, forcing an emergency landing in a field. Investigation revealed a propeller blade had separated due to fatigue cracking.
What happened
Shortly after departing from Fort Lauderdale, the pilot reported feeling a severe vibration in the aircraft. Recognizing the severity of the situation, he shut down the engine and executed an emergency landing in an open field nearby.
The investigation
Post-crash inspection of the aircraft revealed that one propeller blade had separated approximately one foot from the hub. A metallurgical examination of the propeller was conducted to determine the root cause of the failure.
Findings
The examination confirmed that the propeller blade failed due to fatigue cracking. This structural failure led to the separation of the blade, which caused the severe vibration experienced by the pilot during flight.
Probable cause
The propeller blade separated from the hub due to fatigue cracking.
What happened in the 24 Sept 1985 Cessna 172N accident near Hollywood, FL?
A pilot experienced severe vibration shortly after takeoff from Fort Lauderdale, forcing an emergency landing in a field. Investigation revealed a propeller blade had separated due to fatigue cracking.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Sept 1985 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4688D, at Hollywood, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The propeller blade separated from the hub due to fatigue cracking.
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