Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Off-Airport Landing; Missing Oil Plug Found (N44767)

Mammoth Spring, AR, US

On June 26, 1986, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N44767) was involved in an aviation accident near Mammoth Spring, AR. 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 sudden oil pressure loss and engine seizure, forcing an off-airport emergency landing. Post-crash inspection revealed a missing oil plug and no safety wiring; the aircraft had just been released from maintenance.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, the aircraft had sufficient oil before departure and the flight was proceeding normally when the oil pressure suddenly dropped to zero. While diverting to a nearby airport, the engine lost power and seized, necessitating an off-airport emergency landing.

Post-Crash Examination

An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the engine after the accident. The inspection revealed that the oil plug was missing, and there was no evidence of safety wiring. The aircraft had just been released from maintenance, according to the inspector.

Aircraft and Maintenance

The specific aircraft type, registration, and operator were not detailed in the source. The aircraft had recently undergone maintenance, as stated by the inspector. No other mechanical issues were mentioned.

Occupants and Injuries

The source does not provide information on the number of occupants or any injuries sustained. Accordingly, no such details are included in this report.

Conclusion

The facts as reported indicate that the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine failure were associated with the missing oil plug and lack of safety wiring. However, the investigation does not explicitly assign a probable cause.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jun 1986 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Mammoth Spring, AR?

A pilot reported sudden oil pressure loss and engine seizure, forcing an off-airport emergency landing. Post-crash inspection revealed a missing oil plug and no safety wiring; the aircraft had just been released from maintenance.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jun 1986 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N44767, at Mammoth Spring, AR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33981. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.