This March 2008 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: North American T-28D. Injuries: None. Location: Sherman, Texas. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: While in cruise flight at 3,000 feet AGL the airplane’s oil pressure gauge began to fluctuate but the oil temperature and cylinder head temperature readings remained within the normal range. The engine then began to shudder, then lost all power. The pilot was unable to restore power and initiated an off-airport landing. The only landing area available was a soft, sandy field. During the landing roll out the left main gear and nose gear dug into the soft terrain, resulting in the collapse of the left main and nose landing gear.
Probable cause: Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. The soft terrain of the landing field was a factor.
For more information: NTSB.gov
