Casualties unknown

2003-03-16: Piper PA-28R (N7635J) — Enterprise, AL

Enterprise, AL, US

On March 16, 2003, a Piper PA-28R (registration N7635J) was involved in an aviation accident near Enterprise, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power due to oil starvation resulting from a crack in the propeller governor external oil line. A factor was the soft terrain. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a simulated emergency descent, a student pilot experienced an engine rpm surge and oil pressure drop; the engine seized. The CFI diverted to a wheat field, where the aircraft spun and was damaged. A cracked oil line was found.

Incident Summary

While practicing a simulated emergency descent, a student pilot reported a surge in engine rpm followed by a significant drop in engine oil pressure. The certified flight instructor (CFI) checked the oil pressure, and within seconds the engine seized. The windshield became covered with oil, obscuring visibility.

Emergency Landing

The CFI diverted the aircraft toward an open wheat field located approximately three miles southwest of Enterprise Municipal Airport. During the emergency landing, the airplane touched down but became difficult to control after rollout. The aircraft spun 120 degrees to the right and collided with the terrain.

Aircraft Damage

Examination of the aircraft revealed that the propeller assembly was bent. All three landing gear had collapsed, and both wings sustained damage in the vicinity of the collapsed landing gear. Additional damage was noted to the fuselage just aft of the baggage compartment.

Engine Examination

Inspection of the engine found a crack in the propeller governor external oil line. The crack was located at the first 90-degree bend radius aft of the forward B-nut. A review of the aircraft maintenance log indicated that the oil line had been installed approximately 30 hours before the accident.

No probable cause was stated in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030324X00373. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.