Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Following Low Oil Pressure Leads to Collision with Terrain (N7962D)

Avenal, CA, US

On September 9, 1987, a Beech H35 (registration N7962D) operated by Strange, Robert D. was involved in an aviation accident near Avenal, CA. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot on a pleasure flight experienced low oil pressure, attempted to land at a nearby airport, but after a go-around the engine quit and the aircraft struck terrain short of the runway. Post-accident inspection found no oil leaks or other mechanical failures.

Incident Details

During a pleasure flight, the pilot observed that the oil pressure was reading low. In response, the pilot initiated a 180-degree turn to land at a nearby airport. While en route to the airport, the oil pressure continued to drop.

Landing Attempts

The pilot made an initial landing attempt but reported being 'too high' and decided to execute a go-around. On the second approach, the engine quit, and the aircraft collided with the terrain short of the runway.

Inspection

An inspection of the engine revealed no oil leakage or spills. No other mechanical failures or malfunctions were reported.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32119. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.