On April 26, 1994, a Cessna 170A (registration N9530A) was involved in an aviation accident near Bushnell, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's improper landing flare during a forced landing, resulting in a hard landing and separation of the right main landing gear. Contributing to the accident was a partial loss of engine power due to a loose exhaust valve seat on the No. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb at about 50 feet AGL, the airplane experienced vibration and rough engine. The pilot made a forced landing straight ahead, flared high, landed hard, and the right main landing gear separated. Post-incident examination found a loose exhaust valve seat on the No. 3 cylinder.
Incident Overview
A commercial pilot was conducting an initial takeoff climb when, at approximately 50 feet above ground level, the airplane began to vibrate and the engine started running rough. Assessing that he could not clear trees at the end of an open field, the pilot elected to perform a forced landing straight ahead. During the landing, he maneuvered around some trees and cattle.
Landing and Damage
The pilot reported flaring slightly too high, resulting in a hard touchdown. The impact caused the right main landing gear to separate from the aircraft.
Post-Incident Examination
A subsequent examination of the engine assembly was carried out by the Federal Aviation Administration and the pilot. The inspection revealed that the exhaust valve seat on the No. 3 cylinder was loose.
What happened in the 26 Apr 1994 Cessna 170A accident near Bushnell, FL?
During initial climb at about 50 feet AGL, the airplane experienced vibration and rough engine. The pilot made a forced landing straight ahead, flared high, landed hard, and the right main landing gear separated. Post-incident examination found a loose exhaust valve seat on the No. 3 cylinder.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 Apr 1994 Cessna 170A accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Apr 1994 involved a Cessna 170A, registration N9530A, at Bushnell, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot-in-command's improper landing flare during a forced landing, resulting in a hard landing and separation of the right main landing gear. Contributing to the accident was a partial loss of engine power due to a loose exhaust valve seat on the No. 3 cylinder.
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