Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Due to Oil Exhaustion Leads to Hard Landing (N8120C)

Fraconia, PA, US

On May 25, 1990, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8120C) operated by Paul Zarroli, Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Fraconia, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the engine failure was attributed to oil exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Approximately five minutes after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing that resulted in a hard touchdown. Post-crash examination revealed no oil in the engine case; the failure was attributed to oil exhaustion.

Accident Overview

Approximately five minutes after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot reported executing a forced landing, which resulted in a hard landing.

Post-Crash Examination

Post-crash examination of the engine revealed no oil in the engine case. An oil cooler line was found to be oozing oil, though no fractures in the oil lines were reported. The pilot reportedly opened the engine cowling and examined the engine immediately after the accident.

FAA Findings

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the oil dipstick was in place; however, the paint above the dipstick was chipped and the metal was shiny. Additionally, a "V" pattern of oil spray was observed on the engine cowling above the oil dipstick, running toward the back of the engine.

Probable Cause

The cause of the engine failure was attributed to oil exhaustion.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 May 1990 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Fraconia, PA?

Approximately five minutes after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing that resulted in a hard touchdown. Post-crash examination revealed no oil in the engine case; the failure was attributed to oil exhaustion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 May 1990 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8120C, operated by Paul Zarroli, Jr., at Fraconia, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the engine failure was attributed to oil exhaustion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23265. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.