Casualties unknown

1997-03-26: Cessna 152 (N6359M) — Ft. Leavenworth, KS

Ft. Leavenworth, KS, US

On March 26, 1997, a Cessna 152 (registration N6359M) was involved in an aviation accident near Ft. Leavenworth, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The number 2 cylinder separated between the mounting flange and the head due to fatigue. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A CFI reported severe vibration and loud bang at 300 feet. Forced landing in a field resulted in nose gear collapse and nosed over. Inspection found number 2 cylinder separated due to fatigue.

Incident Details

The CFI reported that shortly after takeoff, while climbing through approximately 300 feet above ground level, the airplane began to vibrate severely. Almost immediately, a loud bang was heard from the engine compartment. The CFI executed a left turn to return to the airport and received clearance to land.

Forced Landing Sequence

During the approach, a second loud bang occurred, at which time the forward left portion of the engine cowling became distorted. The CFI performed a forced landing in a field. Upon touchdown, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the airplane nosed over.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident inspection and metallurgical examination were conducted. The examination revealed that the number 2 cylinder had separated between its mounting flange and the cylinder head. The separation was attributed to fatigue.

Probable cause

The number 2 cylinder separated between the mounting flange and the head due to fatigue.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07512. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.