Right Engine Failure During Cruise Flight

Casualties unknown • Memphis, TN, US

A pilot experienced a right engine failure due to a propeller shaft coupling fatigue fracture while cruising at 9,000 feet.

What happened

While operating in cruise flight, the aircraft experienced a contained in-flight failure of the right engine. At a cruise altitude of 9,000 feet, approximately 60 miles east of the intended destination, the pilot reported hearing a loud bang. Following the noise, the engine RPM and engine temperature gauges indicated that the right engine had failed.

The pilot responded by securing the right engine and declaring an emergency to air traffic control. The flight concluded with an uneventful landing.

The investigation

An examination of the propeller shaft coupling was conducted following the incident. Investigators discovered a fracture caused by a fatigue crack. This crack originated from the corner radius of a lubrication slot at the point where the corner radius converges with the root of an inner spline. At the time of the engine failure, the engine had accumulated 6,010.2 total hours since its last overhaul.

Probable cause

The right engine failed due to a fatigue failure of the propeller shaft coupling.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-08-20 Mitsubishi MU-2B-60 accident near Memphis, TN?

A pilot experienced a right engine failure due to a propeller shaft coupling fatigue fracture while cruising at 9,000 feet.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-08-20 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2B-60, registration N610CA, at Memphis, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The right engine failed due to a fatigue failure of the propeller shaft coupling.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030108X00034. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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