On June 15, 1995, a Wsk Pzl Mielec M-18 DROMADER (registration N7070U) was involved in an aviation accident near Jennings, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PARTIAL POWER LOSS FOR AN UNDETERMINED REASON. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a climbing left turn, a part of the engine departed the airplane. The engine lost power, leading to a forced landing where the main gear separated upon striking a dike.
Incident Overview
During a climbing left turn, a portion of the engine separated from the airplane. The pilot decided to return to the airport, but subsequently the engine lost power, forcing the pilot to execute a forced landing. During the landing roll, the main landing gear separated when the aircraft struck a dike.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector examined the wreckage, portions of which were submerged in water. Despite the inspection, the inspector was unable to determine that a part had come off the engine or to ascertain the cause of the reported loss of engine power.
Damage
The main landing gear separated upon striking a dike during the forced landing roll.
