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2 fatalities

Aircraft Crash After Takeoff; Oil Leak Found (N1923E)

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On February 14, 1986, a Cessna 340 (registration N1923E) operated by Universal Flyers was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of America during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Occurrence #1: miscellaneous/other - Phase of operation: takeoff - initial climb. Finding 1: (f) lubricating system - leak. Occurrence #2: in flight collision with terrain/water - Phase of operation: descent - emergency. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archiveUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Shortly after takeoff on a check-out flight, an aircraft descended during crosswind leg and crashed. Witnesses reported a 'poof' noise as the pilot declared an emergency. Investigation revealed oil on the left engine components.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft was conducting a check-out flight. Shortly after takeoff, it was observed on the crosswind leg descending until impact with terrain. Witnesses on the ground heard a 'poof' type noise at the time the pilot radioed the control tower, stating that he was experiencing an emergency of unknown nature. Following the impact, an extensive post-impact fire occurred.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the paper air filter element for the left engine exhibited the presence of oil. Additionally, the left side of the aircraft showed evidence of oil spatter and streaking. The accident resulted in the death of both occupants.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause findings are as follows:

  • Occurrence #1: miscellaneous/other - Phase of operation: takeoff - initial climb. Finding: (f) lubricating system - leak.
  • Occurrence #2: in flight collision with terrain/water - Phase of operation: descent - emergency. Findings: (c) emergency procedure - not followed - pilot in command; (c) panic - pilot in command.
  • Occurrence #3: on ground/water collision with object - Phase of operation: landing - roll. Finding: (f) object - tree(s).
  • Occurrence #4: fire/explosion - Phase of operation: landing - roll.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Feb 1986 Cessna 340 accident near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of America?

Shortly after takeoff on a check-out flight, an aircraft descended during crosswind leg and crashed. Witnesses reported a 'poof' noise as the pilot declared an emergency. Investigation revealed oil on the left engine components.

Were there any fatalities in the 14 Feb 1986 Cessna 340 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Feb 1986 involved a Cessna 340, registration N1923E, operated by Universal Flyers, at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Occurrence #1: miscellaneous/other - Phase of operation: takeoff - initial climb. Finding 1: (f) lubricating system - leak. Occurrence #2: in flight collision with terrain/water - Phase of operation: descent - emergency. Findings 2: (c) emergency procedure - not followed - pilot in command; 3: (c) panic - pilot in…

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