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Engine Failure During Descent Leads to Forced Landing on Sandy Shoreline (N56824)

Grantsville, UT, US

On July 7, 2006, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N56824) was involved in an aviation accident near Grantsville, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A lack of lubrication for undetermined reasons, which resulted in the failure of the Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 connecting rods, a subsequent total loss of engine power during descent, which resulted in a forced landing. A factor in the accident was the soft sand. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During descent from cruise flight, a total engine power loss forced a landing on soft sand. Post-accident examination revealed multiple connecting rod separations, bearing heat stress, lack of lubrication, and low oil quantity.

Accident Summary

While descending from cruise flight, the engine experienced a complete loss of power, necessitating a forced landing on a shoreline composed of soft sand. The pilot reported that fuel and oil levels were normal for the flight and that no anomalies were observed that would have precluded normal operation.

Post-Accident Examination

A teardown inspection of the engine revealed that connecting rods 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 had separated from the crankshaft. Evidence of connecting rod bearing heat stress and lack of lubrication was present. Metal debris was found in the oil pan, and four penetrating holes were observed in the bottom of the crankcase. Prior to the examination, only about one quart of oil was drained from the oil sump.

Engine Condition

The engine had accumulated 1,956 hours since its most recent major overhaul. The recommended time between overhauls is 2,000 hours.

Engine failure

Related events

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jul 2006 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Grantsville, UT?

During descent from cruise flight, a total engine power loss forced a landing on soft sand. Post-accident examination revealed multiple connecting rod separations, bearing heat stress, lack of lubrication, and low oil quantity.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jul 2006 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N56824, at Grantsville, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A lack of lubrication for undetermined reasons, which resulted in the failure of the Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 connecting rods, a subsequent total loss of engine power during descent, which resulted in a forced landing. A factor in the accident was the soft sand.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060714X00946. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.