2002-08-02: Piper PA-36-285 — Altus, OK

Casualties unknown • Altus, OK, US

Probable cause

The loss of engine power as a result of the fracture of a compressor turbine blade due to fatigue. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the pilot, he was flying east, executing his final pass in a field when he heard a "loud noise" and the engine lost total power. He looked for a forced landing location, but obstructions/hazards were identified ahead and on both sides of the airplane. He attempted to turn the airplane 180 degrees, but the airplane impacted the ground, slid approximately 200 feet and came to rest upright. The engine examination revealed that compressor turbine blade #22 fractured due to creep and there was heat distress in the combustion liner, and burnt temperature probes.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-02 Piper PA-36-285 accident near Altus, OK?

According to the pilot, he was flying east, executing his final pass in a field when he heard a "loud noise" and the engine lost total power. He looked for a forced landing location, but obstructions/hazards were identified ahead and on both sides of the airplane. He attempted to turn the airplane 180 degrees, but…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-08-02 involved a Piper PA-36-285, registration N57597, at Altus, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power as a result of the fracture of a compressor turbine blade due to fatigue. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020802X01292. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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