CIRRUS DESIGN CORP SR20 near Jacksonville, FL — 2011-12-04

Probable cause

The failure of a crankshaft gear tooth due to fatigue, which resulted in the loss of several additional gear teeth and a subsequent total loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot landed the airplane on an interstate highway at night after a total loss of engine power. Neither of the two occupants were injured and the airplane was undamaged. Examination of the engine revealed that a crankshaft gear tooth failed due to fatigue, which resulted in the loss of several additional gear teeth and a subsequent total loss of engine power. According to the manufacturer, this type of failure was uncommon in this engine series. The engine had accrued 1,652.3 hours since rebuild and the recommended time between overhaul was 2,000 hours.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Engine power loss

First missed decision gate

Instructor could have opted for an earlier landing at Jacksonville Executive Airport.

NTSB coding

• Loss of engine power (total) · Approach-IFR initial approach

Evidence available

• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• Note Regarding Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Flight Instructor Statementinterview
• Statement of Party Representatives to NTSB Investigationinterview
• Maintenance Log Excerptsother
• N486DA Engine Rebuild Dataother
• Materials Laboratory 15 - Factual Report 13-095report

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