On May 31, 1995, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N16354) operated by Michael J. Bigg was involved in an aviation accident near Ashland, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the crankshaft due to a fatigue crack originating below the surface on the front face of the number 2 crank pin. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
At 6,000 ft, an engine began vibrating and losing power. The pilot attempted a forced landing at an airport but landed 1/4 mi short in trees. Investigation found a fatigue crack in the crankshaft.
Accident Sequence
The flight was operating at a cruising altitude of 6,000 feet when the engine began to vibrate and lose power. The pilot promptly set up for a forced landing at a nearby airport. However, the vibration intensified and the power loss continued. Oil started to cover the windshield, impairing forward visibility. To see ahead, the pilot performed a slipping maneuver, which further reduced the airplane's airspeed and altitude. The airplane landed 1/4 mile short of the runway, coming to rest in trees.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the crankshaft had failed on the front face of the number 2 crank pin. Metallurgical analysis identified fracture features typical of a fatigue crack. The crack originated below the surface of the component.
Probable cause
Failure of the crankshaft due to a fatigue crack originating below the surface on the front face of the number 2 crank pin.
What happened in the 31 May 1995 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Ashland, VA?
At 6,000 ft, an engine began vibrating and losing power. The pilot attempted a forced landing at an airport but landed 1/4 mi short in trees. Investigation found a fatigue crack in the crankshaft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 1995 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N16354, operated by Michael J. Bigg, at Ashland, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the crankshaft due to a fatigue crack originating below the surface on the front face of the number 2 crank pin.
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