Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Following Compressor Turbine Blade Fracture (N57597)

Altus, OK, US

On August 2, 2002, a Piper PA-36-285 (registration N57597) was involved in an aviation accident near Altus, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fracture of compressor turbine blade #22 due to creep. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a final pass in a field, the pilot heard a loud noise and lost engine power. The airplane impacted the ground after a 180-degree turn attempt. Examination revealed a fractured compressor turbine blade due to creep.

Accident Sequence

According to the pilot, he was flying east and 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 or 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.

Engine Examination

The engine examination revealed that compressor turbine blade #22 fractured due to creep. Additionally, there was heat distress in the combustion liner and burnt temperature probes.

Probable cause

Fracture of compressor turbine blade #22 due to creep.

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.