Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary CEN09CA531

Dundee, OH, USA

Aircraft #1

N5559A

FISHER MICHAEL H T-BIRD II

Analysis

While flying at an altitude of 400 to 500 feet above the ground the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine, but was unsuccessful. The airplane contacted an embankment during an off-airport emergency landing in a corn field, resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. The pilot reported that the outer crankshaft seal on the ignition side of the engine was not fully functional, resulting in a drop in vacuum pressure and a subsequent loss of fuel pressure. The pilot did not hold a pilot certificate.

Factual Information

While flying at an altitude of 400 to 500 feet above the ground, the engine lost power. The pilot stated he attempted to restart the engine, but was unsuccessful. The airplane contacted an embankment during an off airport emeregency landing in a corn field. The pilot reported the outer crankshaft seal on the ignition side of the engine was not fully functional resulting in a drop in vacuum pressure, and subsequently a loss of fuel pressure. The pilot did not hold a pilot certificate.

Probable Cause and Findings

A total loss of engine power due to the failure of the outer crankshaft seal.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports