On July 14, 2007, a Cessna TU206G (registration N9374Z) operated by U.s. Forest Service was involved in an aviation accident near New Meadows, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power due to the loss of engine oil pressure following the oil pump's drive shaft failure for an undetermined reason. Contributing factors were the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing and the rough/uneven terrain. 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.
During cruise, the engine lost oil pressure and RPM, prompting a forced landing. The nose gear collapsed on rough terrain, damaging the bulkhead keels, nose wheel bracket, and right wing tip rib. Examination revealed a fractured oil pump drive gear shaft; the cause was undetermined.
Incident Summary
During cruise flight, the airplane's engine began losing oil pressure and RPM. The pilot executed a forced landing. Upon touchdown, the aircraft encountered rough and uneven terrain during the landing roll.
Damage Details
As a result of the rough terrain, the aircraft's nose gear collapsed. The collapse caused bending damage to the bulkhead keels, nose wheel bracket, and right wing tip rib.
Engine Examination
An examination of the engine was conducted. The oil pump drive gear shaft was found to be fractured through at the spline drive. The reason for the failure of the shaft could not be determined.