Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to pre-ignition/detonation for reasons that could not be determined based on available information.
NTSB analysis
During a cross-country flight, the pilot observed a significant increase in the engine oil pressure followed by a sudden drop. He prepared for an emergency landing during which the engine speed increased and the engine lost power. The cabin then filled with smoke and oil covered the windshield. The pilot was able to activate the airplane’s parachute and the airplane landed about 5 seconds later in a ravine. The airplane was destroyed by a postcrash fire.
A postaccident examination of the engine revealed evidence of a pre-ignition/detonation event that partially eroded the Nos. 2 and 5 pistons. The eroded pistons permitted the pressurization of the crankcase, which resulted in oil starvation of the engine. Due to the severe fire damage, the cause of the preignition/detonation could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR18LA174 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 19, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Aguila, Arizona
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cirrus Design Corp SR22
- N-number
- N764CT
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2008
- Damage
- Destroyed
- 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.