On September 11, 1990, a Grumman AA5B (registration N74242) operated by Gary A. Audet was involved in an aviation accident near Beachwood, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO AN IMPROPER ENGINE OVERHAUL PERFORMED BY UNQUALIFIED PERSONS. THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN WAS A FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced an engine failure about 20 minutes into its first flight after overhaul, forcing a landing on a highway. The left wing struck the ground and a moving car, and post-impact fire destroyed the airplane aft of the firewall.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft was on its first flight after an engine overhaul. About 20 minutes into the flight, while approaching the destination airport, the engine failed. The pilot conducted a forced landing onto a four-lane highway. During the landing roll, the left wing contacted the ground and also struck a moving automobile. The airplane then skidded across the roadway, collided with a guardrail, and subsequently flipped around before coming to rest. A post-impact fire ensued, which destroyed the airplane from the firewall aft.
Examination Findings
Examination of the engine after the accident found massive internal disintegration. The investigation revealed that the engine overhaul had not been performed by a qualified individual and had not been done in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications or guidance.
What happened in the 11 Sept 1990 Grumman AA5B accident near Beachwood, OH?
An airplane experienced an engine failure about 20 minutes into its first flight after overhaul, forcing a landing on a highway. The left wing struck the ground and a moving car, and post-impact fire destroyed the airplane aft of the firewall.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Sept 1990 involved a Grumman AA5B, registration N74242, operated by Gary A. Audet, at Beachwood, OH.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO AN IMPROPER ENGINE OVERHAUL PERFORMED BY UNQUALIFIED PERSONS. THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN WAS A FACTOR.
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