Pilot Debrief

AERO COMMANDER 200D near La Grange, TX — 2014-05-27

Final reportCEN14LA263
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Date
2014-05-27
Location
La Grange, TX, USA
Airport
3T5
Aircraft
AERO COMMANDER 200D
Registration
N200D
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to oil starvation for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during cruise flight, the airplane's engine began to run roughly. He then observed no pressure on the oil pressure gauge, and smoke entered the cockpit. The pilot shut down the engine and attempted to glide the airplane to the nearest airport. However, the pilot determined that the airplane would not make the runway and subsequently performed a forced landing to a field. A postaccident on-scene examination revealed damage to the engine's crankcase consistent with oil starvation. The airplane was repaired and the engine disposed of before a thorough examination could be conducted. The reason for the oil starvation could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have diverted to nearest airport earlier after engine issues began.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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