Casualties unknown

Oil Line Separation Results in Engine Failure and Field Landing (N28815)

Salisbury, NC, US

On February 25, 1995, a Grumman AA-5B (registration N28815) was involved in an aviation accident near Salisbury, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE SEPARATION OF THE OIL LINE TO THE OIL COOLER WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL AND 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 pilot reported a hot smell and zero oil pressure after takeoff; continued to destination but engine lost power and seized, forcing an emergency landing in a field. Investigation found an oil line had separated from its engine fitting.

Incident Overview

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot detected a hot smell in the cockpit. A scan of the engine instruments showed no oil pressure. Despite the warning, the pilot continued toward the intended destination, Salisbury. However, the engine subsequently lost power and seized, necessitating an emergency landing in a field.

Emergency Landing

The pilot executed a forced landing in a field. The aircraft came to rest without further incident. No injuries were reported.

Inspection Findings

Post-incident inspection revealed that the oil line connecting the bottom of the oil cooler to the engine had separated from the fitting at the engine. The oil line had been replaced during the most recent annual inspection. The aircraft had accumulated approximately 14 flight hours since the oil line was changed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Feb 1995 Grumman AA-5B accident near Salisbury, NC?

A pilot reported a hot smell and zero oil pressure after takeoff; continued to destination but engine lost power and seized, forcing an emergency landing in a field. Investigation found an oil line had separated from its engine fitting.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Feb 1995 involved a Grumman AA-5B, registration N28815, at Salisbury, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE SEPARATION OF THE OIL LINE TO THE OIL COOLER WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL AND SUBSEQUENT ENGINE SEIZURE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X02929. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.