Casualties unknown

Power Loss and Landing Gear Failure During Aerial Application Flight (N70321)

Washita, OK, US

On April 6, 1992, a Cessna A188B (registration N70321) was involved in an aviation accident near Washita, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE MAIN LANDING GEAR DURING THE FORCED LANDING DUE TO CORROSION AND FATIGUE. A FACTOR WAS THE POWER LOSS DUE TO A FRACTURED CRANKSHAFT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a total power loss during an aerial application flight, resulting in a forced landing in a wheat field. During rollout, a terrain rise caused both main landing gear wheels to separate. Investigation found a broken crankshaft and corroded, cracked landing gear struts.

Accident Overview

An aerial application flight encountered a total power loss while en route. The pilot executed a forced landing in a wheat field. During the landing rollout, the airplane traversed a rise in the terrain, causing both main landing gear wheels to separate from their respective struts. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or operator were provided in the investigation report.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the engine revealed a broken crankshaft, which was consistent with the reported total power loss. The landing gear struts were examined and found to have corrosion on their inside walls. Additionally, evidence of pre-existing cracks was observed in the strut material. These findings indicate that the landing gear was in a degraded condition prior to the incident.

Subsequent Events

Following the wheel separation, the aircraft came to rest in the field. The investigation did not disclose any information regarding injuries or damage beyond the described components. No details regarding weather conditions, time of day, or air traffic control communications were provided in the source material.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14436. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.