On February 8, 1996, a Piper PA-28R (registration N55329) operated by Pft Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Boca Raton, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the cylinder number 3 hold-down studs and nut due to fatigue, which resulted in an engine shutdown during climb. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot executed a forced landing on a golf course after an engine failure at 4,000 feet. During the rollout, the aircraft collided with a tree while avoiding spectators.
What happened
The aircraft was climbing through an altitude of 4,000 feet when the pilot heard a distinct popping noise followed by significant engine vibration. Recognizing the mechanical failure, the pilot initiated a forced landing on a nearby golf course. During the rollout phase, the pilot attempted to steer left to avoid several golfers who remained stationary on the field. The right wing of the airplane subsequently struck a tree.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the engine was conducted to determine the root cause of the in-flight failure. The inspection revealed that the hold-down studs and nut for cylinder number 3 had failed due to fatigue.
Probable cause
The failure of the cylinder number 3 hold-down studs and nut due to fatigue, which resulted in an engine shutdown during climb.
What happened in the 8 Feb 1996 Piper PA-28R accident near Boca Raton, FL?
A pilot executed a forced landing on a golf course after an engine failure at 4,000 feet. During the rollout, the aircraft collided with a tree while avoiding spectators.
Were there any fatalities in the 8 Feb 1996 Piper PA-28R accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Feb 1996 involved a Piper PA-28R, registration N55329, operated by Pft Inc., at Boca Raton, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of the cylinder number 3 hold-down studs and nut due to fatigue, which resulted in an engine shutdown during climb.
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