On June 15, 2005, a Piper PA-25-260 (registration N4754Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Southampton, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A lack of lubrication for undetermined reasons which resulted in the failure of the Nos. 4 and 5 connecting rods, and a subsequent total loss of engine power. A factor in the accident was the furrowed cornfield. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft applying fungicide over a cranberry bog suffered a loud bang and total engine power loss. The pilot dumped the load, cleared trees, and landed in a furrowed cornfield, resulting in substantial damage. Engine exam revealed galling indicative of lubrication issues, but no mechanical malfunction was found.
Incident Overview
During a fungicide application flight over a cranberry bog, the aircraft passed over a road at an altitude of 800 feet MSL. The pilot reported hearing a "loud bang," immediately followed by a complete loss of engine power. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft for a forced landing, dumping the fungicide load and clearing some trees before touching down in a furrowed cornfield. The aircraft sustained substantial damage in the landing.
Engine Examination
Post-incident inspection of the engine revealed internal damage, including galling of a bearing and the crankshaft bearing surface. According to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the galling was indicative of a "lack of lubrication." However, the inspector reported no mechanical malfunction, leak, or blockage of the lubrication system.
What happened in the 15 Jun 2005 Piper PA-25-260 accident near Southampton, NJ?
An aircraft applying fungicide over a cranberry bog suffered a loud bang and total engine power loss. The pilot dumped the load, cleared trees, and landed in a furrowed cornfield, resulting in substantial damage. Engine exam revealed galling indicative of lubrication issues, but no mechanical malfunction was found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Jun 2005 involved a Piper PA-25-260, registration N4754Y, at Southampton, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A lack of lubrication for undetermined reasons which resulted in the failure of the Nos. 4 and 5 connecting rods, and a subsequent total loss of engine power. A factor in the accident was the furrowed cornfield.
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