On December 4, 1987, a Piper PA-60-600 (registration N500TS) operated by Air Continental, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Mansfield, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper weld repairs to the right engine case and separation of the number six cylinder from the case due to fatigue cracking in the through bolts and studs. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Aircraft disappeared from radar during ASR approach after right engine failure due to improper weld repairs and fatigue cracking. Pilot reported ice and engine issues before losing altitude.
Accident Overview
The pilot departed Louisville, KY with a known oil leak in the right engine on the second leg of an on-demand air taxi cargo flight. Approximately 14 minutes after entering Mansfield Approach Control airspace, the pilot requested and received an altitude change from 5,000 to 3,000 ft because he was 'picking up a lot of ice.' After entering Cleveland Approach airspace, he reported the right engine had failed and requested to return to Mansfield.
Sequence of Events
The pilot was informed of Mansfield weather. He then indicated he wanted to try Cleveland, then reported he could not maintain altitude and wanted to go to Mansfield. The pilot was receiving vectors from Mansfield for an ASR approach to Runway 23. At about 1 1/2 miles from the threshold, the pilot reported he was lowering the landing gear. The aircraft then disappeared from the radar scope.
Investigation Findings
Investigation revealed improper weld repairs to the right engine case and separation of the number six cylinder from the case due to fatigue cracking in the through bolts and studs.
Probable cause
Improper weld repairs to the right engine case and separation of the number six cylinder from the case due to fatigue cracking in the through bolts and studs.