Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Due to Oil Depletion and Mechanical Issues Leads to Runway Excursion (N16WW)

Morehead, KY, US

On June 28, 1995, a Piper PA-24-180 (registration N16WW) was involved in an aviation accident near Morehead, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to assure that an inadequate oil supply was available fot the flight. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

While cruising at 4,500 feet, the annunciator lights blinked then became solid, oil pressure registered zero, and the engine lost power. The pilot landed halfway down a 2,600-foot runway with high obstructions, was unable to stop, skidded across dewy grass, and impacted a mobile home porch.

Event Description

A pilot reported that during cruise flight at an altitude of 4,500 feet mean sea level, the annunciator lights in the cockpit began blinking and then became solid. Subsequently, the oil pressure gauge indicated no oil pressure. The engine then lost power, prompting the pilot to choose to land at the nearest airport.

Landing and Impact

The airplane touched down halfway along a 2,600-foot runway that had high obstructions at the approach end. The pilot was unable to bring the airplane to a stop on the remaining runway. The aircraft skidded across grass covered with heavy dew and subsequently impacted the back porch of a mobile home.

Engine Examination

Post-accident examination of the engine revealed that it was depleted of oil. A teardown inspection disclosed that both compression rings on the number two cylinder were fractured into several pieces. Additionally, the camshaft was engraved with the phrase "NOT A CERTIFIED PART." All eight rod bolt nuts were found installed upside down.

Maintenance Records

Engine records indicated that the last engine overhaul occurred on July 5, 1992.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03797. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.