Casualties unknown

2006-11-23: Nanchang CJ-6A (N8181C) — Queen Creek, AZ

Queen Creek, AZ, US

On November 23, 2006, a Nanchang CJ-6A (registration N8181C) was involved in an aviation accident near Queen Creek, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accessory gearbox failed as a result of the air compressor piston seizing, leading to loss of engine power. 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

An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power due to an accessory gearbox failure caused by a seized air compressor piston, resulting in a forced landing and collision with a berm.

Incident Overview

During a flight, the pilot encountered issues with the aircraft's air compressor. Several minutes later, a total loss of engine power occurred. The pilot executed a forced landing at an abandoned airstrip. While rolling on the landing surface, the airplane struck a berm, causing the landing gear to collapse.

Examination of Components

Post-incident examination of the compressor and gearbox assembly by a maintenance facility revealed that the accessory gearbox had failed. The failure was attributed to the seizure of the air compressor piston. This inhibited movement within the gearbox led to the subsequent failure of the oil pump, fuel pump, air compressor, and tachometer generator.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported experiencing problems with the engine's air compressor during the flight. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost all power. The pilot chose to land at an abandoned airstrip. During the landing roll, the airplane encountered a berm, causing the landing gear to collapse.

Probable cause

The accessory gearbox failed as a result of the air compressor piston seizing, leading to loss of engine power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20061206X01744. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.