On July 3, 1987, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N5032S) operated by Irwin A. Krugel was involved in an aviation accident near Lordsburg, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fatigue failure of a propeller blade originating near the leading edge. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced severe engine vibration during a cross-country flight, reduced power and slowed down, then performed a wheels-up landing on rocky desert terrain. Post-landing inspection revealed a propeller blade tip had broken off due to fatigue failure.
Incident Summary
During a cross-country flight, the pilot encountered a severe engine vibration. In response, the pilot reduced engine power and decreased airspeed to mitigate the vibration intensity. Subsequently, the pilot decided to execute a wheels-up landing on rocky desert terrain. After the aircraft came to rest, an inspection revealed that the tip of one propeller blade had separated from the blade in flight.
Investigation Findings
A metallurgical examination of the broken propeller blade was conducted. The examination uncovered evidence of fatigue failure. The fatigue crack originated near the leading edge of the blade. No other anomalies were reported.
Probable cause
Fatigue failure of a propeller blade originating near the leading edge.
What happened in the 3 Jul 1987 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Lordsburg, NM?
A pilot experienced severe engine vibration during a cross-country flight, reduced power and slowed down, then performed a wheels-up landing on rocky desert terrain. Post-landing inspection revealed a propeller blade tip had broken off due to fatigue failure.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N5032S, operated by Irwin A. Krugel, at Lordsburg, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fatigue failure of a propeller blade originating near the leading edge.
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