On June 18, 1989, a Cessna 172N (registration N52HR) operated by Edward P. Oleksky was involved in an aviation accident near Niagara Falls, NY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The oil drain plug was missing, allowing oil to drain out and cause the engine to seize. 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.
A pilot landed in a wheat field after the engine ran rough; the aircraft flipped over when the nose wheel stuck in soft soil. No injuries occurred among the four occupants. Investigation revealed a missing oil drain plug caused engine seizure.
Incident Overview
During a pleasure flight over Niagara Falls, New York, the aircraft's engine began to run rough. The pilot performed a forced landing in a wheat field short of the Niagara Falls Airport. Upon touchdown, the nose wheel became stuck in the soft field, causing the aircraft to flip over. The pilot and three passengers were uninjured.
Post-Flight Examination
Inspection after the incident revealed that the engine's oil drain plug was missing. This allowed engine oil to drain out, leading to seizure of the engine. The engine had been replaced approximately six flight hours prior to the event.
Investigation Findings
The absence of the oil drain plug was identified as the direct cause of the oil loss and subsequent engine failure. No other contributing factors were reported.
Probable cause
The oil drain plug was missing, allowing oil to drain out and cause the engine to seize.
What happened in the 18 Jun 1989 Cessna 172N accident near Niagara Falls, NY?
A pilot landed in a wheat field after the engine ran rough; the aircraft flipped over when the nose wheel stuck in soft soil. No injuries occurred among the four occupants. Investigation revealed a missing oil drain plug caused engine seizure.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Jun 1989 Cessna 172N accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jun 1989 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N52HR, operated by Edward P. Oleksky, at Niagara Falls, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The oil drain plug was missing, allowing oil to drain out and cause the engine to seize.
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