Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to the fatigue failure of the No. 6 connecting rod.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, while in cruise flight, the engine began running rough, and shortly after, lost all power. The pilot executed a forced landing into a wheat field, during which the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and left lift strut.
Examination revealed a large hole in the top of the engine case adjacent to the No. 6 cylinder. Further examination revealed that the No. 6 connecting rod failed in fatigue, which resulted in the total loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA316 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 11, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Eagle Butte, South Dakota
- Nearest airport
- (84D)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172F
- N-number
- N5340R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1965
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.