On June 13, 1989, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N9953W) was involved in an aviation accident near Dillsburg, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain controlled flight following a complete loss of engine power caused by oil expulsion from the crankcase vent due to an undetermined compression leak. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power during descent into New Cumberland Airport, forcing an emergency landing in a nearby corn field due to oil leakage from the crankcase vent.
What happened
While descending toward New Cumberland Airport, the pilot encountered a sudden and total loss of engine power, resulting in a complete stoppage of the engine. With no ability to maintain altitude or reach the runway, the pilot was compelled to execute an emergency landing off the airport boundaries. The aircraft came to rest in an adjacent corn field.
The investigation
Post-accident examination and interviews with the pilot-in-command, who also owned the aircraft, revealed that engine oil had been expelled from the crankcase vent tube. This expulsion was attributed to a compression leak into the crankcase, which increased internal pressure beyond normal operating limits. Investigators were unable to pinpoint the exact location or root cause of this compression leak within the engine assembly.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain controlled flight following a complete loss of engine power caused by oil expulsion from the crankcase vent due to an undetermined compression leak.
What happened in the 13 Jun 1989 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Dillsburg, PA?
A pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power during descent into New Cumberland Airport, forcing an emergency landing in a nearby corn field due to oil leakage from the crankcase vent.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Jun 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N9953W, at Dillsburg, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to maintain controlled flight following a complete loss of engine power caused by oil expulsion from the crankcase vent due to an undetermined compression leak.
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