No fatalities

28 Jul 2008: Grumman G-164A — Bi State Helicopters Inc — Veedersburg, IN

Veedersburg, IN, United States

On 28 Jul 2008, a Grumman G-164A operated by Bi State Helicopters Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Veedersburg, IN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The oil filler cap was not installed, resulting in a total loss of engine oil. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

During an aerial application flight, the airplane lost engine power due to a missing oil filler cap, forcing a landing on a road. The left wing struck corn and terrain, causing substantial damage. The pilot was uninjured.

Accident Overview

An airplane engaged in an aerial application flight experienced a loss of engine power while operating over a field. The pilot executed a forced landing in a northerly direction on a hard surface road adjacent to the field. The road had corn growing along its left side and a pole along its right side. During the landing, the pilot attempted to avoid the pole, causing the left wing to impact the corn and terrain.

Damage and Injuries

The impact resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. Both the left and right wings were buckled and bent. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured.

Examination Findings

A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the oil filler cap had not been installed. This omission led to a total loss of engine oil. The oil filler cap was subsequently found in the lower portion of the engine nacelle.

Probable cause

The oil filler cap was not installed, resulting in a total loss of engine oil.

Contributing factors

Causes

Fluid levelRunway/land/takeoff/taxi surfaIncorrect service/maintenance

Other contributing factors

Object/animal/substance