Casualties unknown

Aircraft Ditched After Engine Oil Pressure Loss and Failure (N61897)

Atlantic Ocean, AO, US

On July 26, 1987, a Cessna 172M (registration N61897) operated by Lots,inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO. 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 flight from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale experienced zero engine oil pressure. The pilot reversed course but the engine quit, leading to a ditching in the Atlantic. The aircraft was not recovered and the cause of failure remains undetermined.

Incident Overview

The flight was underway from Freeport, Bahamas, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While approximately 43 miles west-northwest of Freeport, the pilot noticed that the engine oil pressure gauge indicated zero pressure. This prompted a change in course back toward Freeport.

Pilot Actions

After observing the zero oil pressure reading, the pilot reversed the aircraft's direction to return to Freeport. He established communication with Miami Radio and transmitted his current location. Shortly after, the engine stopped operating. The pilot then performed a ditching of the aircraft in the Atlantic Ocean.

Investigation Findings

The aircraft has not been recovered from the ocean. Investigators examined the available information but were unable to determine the reason for the engine failure. The cause remains unknown due to the lack of physical evidence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jul 1987 Cessna 172M accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO?

A flight from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale experienced zero engine oil pressure. The pilot reversed course but the engine quit, leading to a ditching in the Atlantic. The aircraft was not recovered and the cause of failure remains undetermined.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jul 1987 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N61897, operated by Lots,inc., at Atlantic Ocean, AO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31592. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.