Casualties unknown

2006-05-30: Grumman AA-1B (N8866L) — Bountiful, UT

Bountiful, UT, US

On May 30, 2006, a Grumman AA-1B (registration N8866L) was involved in an aviation accident near Bountiful, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An obstructed windshield which resulted in the pilot misjudging the distance/altitude during an emergency landing. An oil leak as a result of a leaking crankshaft seal was a factor. 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

A pilot experienced an oil leak that covered the windshield after takeoff. Unable to see, she returned to the airport, attempted two landings, and overran the runway, striking a pipe. The nose gear collapsed and the firewall was damaged. Maintenance had replaced a plug but not the seal.

Flight and Oil Leak

The pilot reported that the flight was the first following the airplane's annual inspection. Departing from runway 16, the airplane proceeded to a point 5 to 10 miles south of the airport when oil gushed from the front of the plane, covering the windshield. The pilot was unable to see through the windshield at all.

Attempted Landings

The pilot returned to the airport and attempted to land on runway 34 but was too high and fast. She then entered the traffic pattern for runway 16. After landing, she applied the brakes, but by then there was not much runway left. The airplane overran the runway and impacted a metal pipe.

Accident and Damage

An FAA inspector examined the airplane and found that the nose gear had collapsed and there was damage to the firewall. The inspector determined that the source of oil on the windshield was a displaced crankshaft seal.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the airplane's maintenance records by the inspector revealed that the mechanic who performed the annual inspection had replaced the crankshaft plug but not the crankshaft seal.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060628X00846. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.