N540MT

Substantial
Serious

THROCKMORTON MATTHEW E F1-EVOS/N: 132

Accident Details

Date
Friday, June 12, 2009
NTSB Number
CEN09CA354
Location
Mitchell, IN
Event ID
20090615X22503
Coordinates
38.742778, -86.476112
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

A total loss of engine power due to the disconnection of an oil line and the subsequent loss of engine oil.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N540MT
Make
THROCKMORTON MATTHEW E
Serial Number
132
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Model / ICAO
F1-EVOSA02
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
THROCKMORTON MATTHEW E
Address
1035 N 9TH ST
Status
Deregistered
City
CLINTON
State / Zip Code
IN 47842-1415
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that during cruise flight he observed an oil pressure warning indication on the electronic flight instrument system (EFIS) and noted that the engine oil pressure had dropped to approximately one pound per square inch (psi). He immediately turned toward the nearest airport, which was about 7 miles away. However, the engine stopped producing power about one minute later. The pilot prepared for a forced landing to a farm field. The field consisted of chest-high grass with soft, muddy areas. The airplane subsequently nosed over during the landing. A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that an oil line between the oil cooler and the engine became disconnected. The oil line and fitting appeared to be otherwise intact. The examination also noted oil residue along the bottom of the fuselage. The oil line connection was not equipped with a clamp, and relied on the interference of the line and the fitting to maintain the connection. The pilot stated that the oil line manufacturer assured him that the design configuration was adequate.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN09CA354