Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-46-350P near Kiowa, CO — 2012-09-18

Final reportCEN12FA653
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Date
2012-09-18
Location
Kiowa, CO, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-46-350P
Registration
N188SR
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A catastrophic engine failure due to unrecognized and unrepaired corrosion within the engine, which was consistent with engine operations after an extended period of inactivity.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that as the airplane climbed to about 10,000 feet mean sea level after takeoff, the engine began a “moderate violent shaking.” The oil pressure then decreased rapidly, oil sprayed on the windshield, and the engine seized. The pilot made a forced landing in a hay field, during which the airplane’s nose gear collapsed and the left wing rear spar was bent. Examination of the engine revealed corrosion and pitting on the cylinder walls, camshaft, and lifters, which likely contributed to accelerated wear of engine components and the subsequent failure of the front crankshaft seal. The airplane had annual inspections in May 2011 and August 2012, but no records of maintenance could be located for about a 4 year period before the May 2011 inspection. The airplane had accumulated only about 38 hours in the previous 5 years, including less than 2 hours in the 1 year preceding the accident. The observed engine wear and damage was consistent with engine operations after an extended period of inactivity; however, the wear and damage could have been detected during at least the August 2012 inspection. The circumstances of the engine failure were consistent with a mechanical failure due to unrecognized or unrepaired corrosion in the engine.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the flight after noting engine issues during initial climb.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 20 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents20

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