AIR TRACTOR INC AT-301
Leland, IL — August 17, 2009
Event Information
| Date | August 17, 2009 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN09CA535 |
| Event ID | 20090821X04329 |
| Location | Leland, IL |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 41.66583, -88.77139 |
| Airport | Hendrickson Flying Service |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | AIR TRACTOR INC |
| Model | AT-301 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 137 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
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.
Full 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. 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 post accident 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.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.