Accident Overview
On June 29, 2024, at approximately 1800 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 172I airplane, registration N46118, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Lewiston Woodville, North Carolina. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Flight History
The pilot departed Williamsburg-Jamestown Airport (JGG) in Williamsburg, Virginia, with a planned destination of Topsail Airpark (01NC) in Holly Ridge, North Carolina. About one hour after departure, while cruising at an altitude of 3,500 ft mean sea level, the pilot noticed that the engine oil temperature was higher than normal and observed what appeared to be smoke emanating from the engine cowling. Suspecting a possible engine fire, the pilot initiated an emergency landing in a cultivated field.
Landing and Damage
During the landing in the field, the left wing struck vegetation, causing the airplane to come to rest in an upright position. A postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the left wing and aileron. No evidence of fire or fire damage was found on the engine or airframe.
Examination Findings
Further examination of the engine revealed that a foreign material consistent with residential-type insulation was obstructing the engine oil cooler and some cylinder cooling fins. Similar material was also present in the induction air filter and on the nose landing gear. The source of this foreign material could not be determined.