On June 5, 1997, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N7581W) was involved in an aviation accident near Columbus, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Corrosion of the engine air filter caused aluminum flakes to be ingested into the carburetor, blocking the air intake and resulting in engine power loss due to air starvation. 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.
An airplane experienced engine power loss after maneuvers, leading to a forced landing in a cornfield. Investigation revealed a corroded air filter shed aluminum flakes that blocked the carburetor, and an unaddressed service bulletin was noted.
Incident Summary
While en route back to the departure airport following a series of maneuvers, the engine sputtered and subsequently lost power. All attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The airplane sustained substantial damage during a forced landing in a cornfield.
Investigation Findings
A mechanic later determined that the engine air filter was corroded. This corrosion allowed pieces of aluminum to 'flake off' and be ingested into the carburetor. Evidence indicated that these pieces blocked the carburetor air intake, leading to air starvation in the engine.
Maintenance Recommendations
Piper Service Bulletin Number 975 had been issued, recommending maintenance or replacement of a seal around the landing light. Cracking of this seal could allow standing water to corrode the air filter. The service bulletin had not been complied with prior to the incident.
Probable cause
Corrosion of the engine air filter caused aluminum flakes to be ingested into the carburetor, blocking the air intake and resulting in engine power loss due to air starvation. A service bulletin (Piper SB 975) addressing a landing light seal that could permit water ingress and filter corrosion was not complied with.
What happened in the 5 Jun 1997 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Columbus, MS?
An airplane experienced engine power loss after maneuvers, leading to a forced landing in a cornfield. Investigation revealed a corroded air filter shed aluminum flakes that blocked the carburetor, and an unaddressed service bulletin was noted.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jun 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N7581W, at Columbus, MS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Corrosion of the engine air filter caused aluminum flakes to be ingested into the carburetor, blocking the air intake and resulting in engine power loss due to air starvation. A service bulletin (Piper SB 975) addressing a landing light seal that could permit water ingress and filter corrosion was not complied with.
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