CESSNA 172S near Jackson, MS — 2012-01-28
- Date
- 2012-01-28
- Location
- Jackson, MS, USA
- Airport
- JAN
- Aircraft
- CESSNA 172S
- Registration
- N427CP
- Category
- Airplane
- Highest injury
- None
- Fatalities
- 0
- Phase of flight
- Cruise
Probable cause
The separation of the propeller blade tip due to fatigue cracking that initiated at the blade’s leading edge.
NTSB narrative
According to the pilot, he conducted a thorough preflight inspection of the airplane with no anomalies noted. Then, when the airplane was at an altitude of 7,000 feet mean sea level, an extreme vibration began. The pilot reduced engine power, verified the airplane’s flight controls were still operational, and declared an emergency with the air traffic controller that he was in contact with. As the vibration continued, the pilot elected to shut down the engine and, as the propeller was windmilling, the vibration continued. The pilot reduced the airspeed in order to stop the propeller rotation, then immediately obtained best glide airspeed once the propeller stopped. As soon as the propeller stopped windmilling, the vibration ceased. The pilot landed the airplane without incident and it was towed to the fixed base operator. A postincident engine teardown revealed that there were no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Examination of a fracture surface on one of the propeller blades revealed that the blade tip failed as a result of fatigue cracking that initiated at the leading edge of the blade. The propeller blade was inspected about 72 operating hours before the incident, as part of the airplane’s 100-hour annual inspection, and no discrepancies were noted at that time.
Analysis
- Primary failure mode
- Mechanical failure
- First missed decision gate
- Pilot could have conducted a more thorough inspection of the propeller before flight.
NTSB coding
- Part(s) separation from AC · Enroute-climb to cruise
Evidence available
- Photos
- 10 docket documents
Docket documents10
- Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
- Statement of Party Representatives to NTSB Investigationinterview
- Engine Maintenance Log Excerptsother
- Engine Teardown Examination Resultsother
- FAA SAIB Propeller RPM Restrictions and Placardsother
- JAN Weather Observationsother
- Propeller Maintenance Log Excerptsother
- Return of Parts Documentationother
- Materials Laboratory 15 - Factual Report 12-021 (7 images)photos
- Photo 1: View of Damaged Propeller Blade Tip (Courtesy of FAA)photos
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