Pilot Debrief

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-301 near Leland, IL — 2009-08-17

Final reportCEN09CA535
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Date
2009-08-17
Location
Leland, IL, USA
Airport
IL93
Aircraft
AIR TRACTOR INC AT-301
Registration
N73102
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power in flight due to a loss of engine oil as a result of the separation of the propeller hub components for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was spraying a field when “oil started hitting [his] windshield” and the engine lost oil pressure. Shortly thereafter, the engine “clattered and then quit.” He executed a forced landing into a corn field, where the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot noted that there was no indication of a problem prior to the loss of engine oil. A postaccident inspection revealed oil spray residue on the engine cowling and windshield. Examination determined that the spring puller bolt assembly and the piston gasket nut had separated from the propeller hub. The components were not recovered, precluding further examination. As a result, the exact nature of the failure could not be determined.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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