Incident Summary
Shortly after departure, when the airplane reached approximately 250 feet above ground level, oil began to spray onto the windshield. The pilot checked the engine gauges and observed a drop in oil pressure. As the pilot turned onto the crosswind leg, the engine started to run roughly. The pilot elected to conduct a 180-degree turn back to the runway.
Landing and Impact
The airplane touched down on approximately the last 250 feet of the runway. It proceeded through a fence, sustaining structural damage during the impact. The airplane came to rest upright among several parked buses.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector revealed that the engine’s oil cap was off and hanging by its chain. The cap’s gasket appeared worn; however, the inspector could not determine when the cap came off. The inspector added that the pilot stated the engine was serviced with oil prior to the flight and that the oil cap was secured.