On April 11, 2011, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration N122AN) operated by Vertol Systems Company was involved in an aviation accident near Loxley, United States of America in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power due to internal failure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During cruise flight, an engine lost power after a loud metallic sound and violent vibration. The pilot performed a forced landing to a farm field, causing the airplane to nose over and sustain substantial wing damage. Postaccident inspection revealed metal particles in the oil and a non-rotating crankshaft.
Incident Overview
According to the pilot, during cruise flight the engine began to run rough and lose power. Subsequently, a loud metallic sound was heard, and the engine vibrated violently before losing power entirely. The pilot executed a forced landing to a farm field, during which the airplane nosed over due to the soft terrain. This resulted in substantial damage to the wings.
Postaccident Inspection
A postaccident inspection was conducted. The inspection revealed that the crankshaft would not rotate. An internal examination of the cylinders and spark plugs did not identify a reason for the power loss. The oil system was also examined, and large amounts of metal particles were found in the oil. Due to a lack of suitable equipment and facilities, further disassembly of the engine was not attempted.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be a loss of engine power due to internal failure.
