Cessna 172S N375LP accident near Daytona Beach, Florida

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to a catastrophic engine failure, the origin of which could not be determined during postaccident examination.

NTSB analysis

Upon reaching a cruise altitude of 3,000 feet, the engine began to run rough and make loud noises. The flight instructor assumed control of the airplane, and the engine subsequently lost all power. Oil was present on the windscreen. The instructor performed a forced landing in a nearby field where the nose gear contacted a ditch, resulting in a nose over and substantial damage to the airframe. Initial examination of the engine revealed a hole on the lower case and the camshaft partially protruding from the upper case. Suspecting a failure of the No. 4 piston, it and cylinder were subsequently examined; all fracture surfaces showed signs of overstress; however, there was no indication of preexisting mechanical damage that would have led to progressive failure, including fatigue. No corrosion or chemical degradation was found on the piston fracture surfaces. Accordingly, the initiating event that led to the catastrophic failure of the engine could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12LA274 for the full record.