On August 26, 1995, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N2937X) was involved in an aviation accident near Juneau, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fatigue crack emanating from a gouge associated with foreign object damage. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
After takeoff, an airplane experienced vibration. The pilot returned for landing. Inspection revealed a 6-inch propeller blade separation caused by a fatigue crack from foreign object damage.
Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft began to vibrate. The pilot reduced engine power and executed an immediate return for landing. Post-flight examination discovered that a 6-inch section of one propeller blade had separated from the assembly.
Examination Findings
The separated blade fragment was recovered. Metallurgical analysis determined that the blade failed due to a fatigue crack. This crack originated from a gouge that was associated with foreign object damage. The propeller blade material was tested and found to meet the material and hardness specifications prescribed by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
The investigation identified the cause of the propeller blade separation as a fatigue crack emanating from a gouge resulting from foreign object damage.
Probable cause
Fatigue crack emanating from a gouge associated with foreign object damage.
What happened in the 26 Aug 1995 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Juneau, AK?
After takeoff, an airplane experienced vibration. The pilot returned for landing. Inspection revealed a 6-inch propeller blade separation caused by a fatigue crack from foreign object damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Aug 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N2937X, at Juneau, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fatigue crack emanating from a gouge associated with foreign object damage.
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