On June 21, 1988, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N4490T) was involved in an aviation accident near Eldon, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: TOTAL FAILURE OF THE POWERPLANT DUE TO AN OIL LINE RUPTURE, AND PROPER TOUCHDOWN POINT NOT ATTAINED BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot on a business cross-country flight experienced engine failure after hearing a pop and seeing oil. An emergency landing attempt short of the runway resulted in collision with a fence and terrain.
Accident Narrative
During a business cross-country flight, a private pilot reported hearing a popping noise, followed by oil appearing on the windshield. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to lose power and then quit. The pilot attempted an emergency landing at an airport, but the aircraft touched down short of the runway, struck a fence, and collided with terrain. The aircraft came to rest approximately 25 feet from the runway edge.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed a broken engine oil line. The failure resulted in loss of engine oil, leading to a total loss of engine power. No additional contributing factors were identified in the source material.
What happened in the 21 Jun 1988 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Eldon, MO?
A private pilot on a business cross-country flight experienced engine failure after hearing a pop and seeing oil. An emergency landing attempt short of the runway resulted in collision with a fence and terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jun 1988 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N4490T, at Eldon, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
TOTAL FAILURE OF THE POWERPLANT DUE TO AN OIL LINE RUPTURE, AND PROPER TOUCHDOWN POINT NOT ATTAINED BY THE PILOT IN COMMAND.
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