Casualties unknown

Connecting Rod Failure and Emergency Landing near Crystal River, Florida (N9218X)

Crystal River, FL, US

On May 17, 1986, a Cessna 182E (registration N9218X) was involved in an aviation accident near Crystal River, FL. 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

A pilot reported a runaway propeller and oil pressure loss before a connecting rod failure forced an emergency landing in a marshy area northwest of Crystal River, Florida. Post-crash examination found no malfunctions in the propeller, governor, or oil pump.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that just before descent, he pushed the propeller control full forward. He then experienced a runaway propeller and lost oil pressure.

Emergency Landing

Moments after the propeller and oil pressure issues, a connecting rod failure occurred. The pilot executed an emergency landing in a marshy area northwest of Crystal River, Florida.

Post-Crash Examination

A post-crash examination of the propeller and the propeller governor revealed no evidence of any malfunction or failure of either component. Additionally, examination of the engine-driven oil pump revealed no evidence of any failure or malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 May 1986 Cessna 182E accident near Crystal River, FL?

A pilot reported a runaway propeller and oil pressure loss before a connecting rod failure forced an emergency landing in a marshy area northwest of Crystal River, Florida. Post-crash examination found no malfunctions in the propeller, governor, or oil pump.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 May 1986 involved a Cessna 182E, registration N9218X, at Crystal River, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33634. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.