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Casualties unknown

Engine Oil Loss Forces Landing into Trees (N55737)

Bunnell, FL, US

On February 20, 1993, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N55737) operated by Miglionico, Eugene E. was involved in an aviation accident near Bunnell, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE RUPTURE OF THE OIL COOLER LINE AT THE ADEL CLAMP FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS, RESULTING IN A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, AND A SUBSEQUENT ENGINE SEIZURE. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot experienced a loss of engine oil and subsequent engine seizure during cruise flight, leading to a forced landing into trees.

Incident Overview

A private pilot was conducting a cruise flight at 6,500 feet mean sea level in visual meteorological conditions when the airplane experienced a loss of engine oil. This loss resulted in an engine seizure. The pilot contacted Daytona Approach Control, declared an emergency, and performed a forced landing into trees.

Post-Accident Examination

A subsequent examination of the engine assembly and accessories revealed that the oil cooler line at the Adel clamp had failed. The reason for this failure could not be determined from the available evidence.

Conclusion

The forced landing was precipitated by the engine seizure following the oil loss, which originated from the failure of the oil cooler line at the Adel clamp. The underlying cause of the failure remains undetermined.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Feb 1993 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Bunnell, FL?

A private pilot experienced a loss of engine oil and subsequent engine seizure during cruise flight, leading to a forced landing into trees.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Feb 1993 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N55737, operated by Miglionico, Eugene E., at Bunnell, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE RUPTURE OF THE OIL COOLER LINE AT THE ADEL CLAMP FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS, RESULTING IN A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, AND A SUBSEQUENT ENGINE SEIZURE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11871. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.