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Takeoff Accident Due to Left Engine Turbocharger Bearing Failure (N700MM)

Lancaster, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On June 25, 1992, a Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600) (registration N700MM) operated by Zero One Tango was involved in an aviation accident near Lancaster, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the left engine turbochargers bearings, which resulted in a loss of power and subsequent degradation of climb performance. 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

During takeoff, an airplane used full runway length, lifted off briefly, then left wing dipped, struck power lines, and crashed on a highway, hitting a car. Investigation found left engine turbocharger bearing wear led to power loss.

Accident Description

Witnesses observed the airplane during its takeoff ground run at a slow speed, utilizing the entire 4,102-foot runway before becoming airborne briefly. Shortly after liftoff, the left wing dipped and struck power lines, causing the airplane to crash on a highway and collide with a car. Both occupants sustained injuries.

Investigation Findings

Metallurgical teardown examinations of the two left engine turbochargers revealed evidence of extreme wear in the bearings from the turbine wheel shafts. This wear resulted in obstructed oil ports, leading to a loss of engine power.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause is the failure of the left engine turbochargers bearings, which resulted in a loss of power and subsequent degradation of climb performance.

Engine failure

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