On May 23, 1990, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N301KK) was involved in an aviation accident near Little Rock, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The shearing of the timing gear, which resulted in engine failure during the instrument approach. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An ATR aircraft experienced an engine failure while intercepting the glide slope during an instrument landing system approach in instrument flight rules conditions, resulting in an emergency landing on unsuitable terrain.
What happened
The pilot of an ATR aircraft reported that he was conducting an instrument landing system (ILS) approach under instrument flight rules conditions. At the moment the engine failed, the aircraft had just intercepted the glide slope. Following the failure, the crew attempted an emergency off-airport landing on a landfill characterized by rough and unsuitable terrain.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the timing gear had sheared. This mechanical failure was identified as the primary cause of the engine stoppage during the critical phase of the approach.
Findings
The sequence of events indicates that the loss of power occurred precisely when the aircraft was established on the glide slope. The subsequent decision to land on a landfill with rough terrain was necessitated by the immediate need to manage the emergency situation away from the airport environment.
Probable cause
The shearing of the timing gear, which resulted in engine failure during the instrument approach.
What happened in the 23 May 1990 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Little Rock, AR?
An ATR aircraft experienced an engine failure while intercepting the glide slope during an instrument landing system approach in instrument flight rules conditions, resulting in an emergency landing on unsuitable terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 May 1990 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N301KK, at Little Rock, AR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The shearing of the timing gear, which resulted in engine failure during the instrument approach.
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