On March 12, 1988, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N8727E) operated by Card Wings Flight Service was involved in an aviation accident near Rock Hill, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An oil line that was not properly connected, leading to oil pressure loss and subsequent engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a maintenance test flight, oil pressure dropped to zero, causing engine failure. The pilot executed a forced landing in a pasture, but the aircraft struck an earth mound, rolled inverted, and came to rest after traveling approximately 3,091 feet.
Accident
A pilot and a certificated pilot/passenger departed Rock Hill Airport for a local maintenance test flight following an engine overhaul and installation. Approximately 10 minutes into the flight, the engine oil pressure dropped to zero, resulting in a complete loss of power. The pilot radioed the information to the departure airport and attempted a forced landing in a large pasture with fences.
Forced Landing
The first touchdown occurred about 1,746 feet past a tree line at the edge of the field. The aircraft then collided with an earth mound 961 feet beyond the first touchdown point, rolled inverted, and collided with terrain 300 feet past the earth mound. The total distance between the tree line and the stopping point was about 3,091 feet. The latter portion of the path was more steeply downsloping than the first 2,150 feet.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination revealed an oil line that showed evidence of not having been properly connected.
Probable cause
An oil line that was not properly connected, leading to oil pressure loss and subsequent engine failure.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Mar 1988 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Rock Hill, SC?
During a maintenance test flight, oil pressure dropped to zero, causing engine failure. The pilot executed a forced landing in a pasture, but the aircraft struck an earth mound, rolled inverted, and came to rest after traveling approximately 3,091 feet.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Mar 1988 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N8727E, operated by Card Wings Flight Service, at Rock Hill, SC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
An oil line that was not properly connected, leading to oil pressure loss and subsequent engine failure.