NTSB Factual Report

On May 21, 2017, about 1355 eastern daylight time, a privately owned and operated Cessna 182S, N378ES, was substantially damaged when it impacted a utility pole and terrain during a forced landing near West Chester, Pennsylvania. The private pilot was not injured. The flight departed Trenton Mercer Airport (TTN), Trenton, New Jersey at about 1330, and was destined for Montgomery County Airpark (GAI), Gaithersburg, Maryland. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan was filed for the personal flight, which was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

According to the pilot, about 20 minutes into the flight at an altitude of about 5,000 ft mean sea level, he noticed a loss of oil pressure, and the oil pressure warning light illuminated about 1 minute later. The cylinder head temperature and oil temperature indications were normal. He declared an emergency with air traffic control, and received vectors to the Brandywine Airport (OQN), West Chester, Pennsylvania. A few minutes later the engine began to "shudder" making it difficult to control the airplane. At that time, the oil temperature was "high up on the gauge" and he decided to shut down the engine. About 3 miles from OQN, he determined the airplane would likely not reach the airport, and he prepared for an off-airport landing in a nearby field. During the approach to the field he noticed powerlines obstructing his path. Unable to climb above them, he descended and attempted to fly underneath the wires; however, the left wing stuck a utility pole. The airplane impacted the ground and came to rest about 200 ft beyond the pole.

Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administrator (FAA) inspector revealed that the left wing was separated from the fuselage, the elevator and rudder were damaged. Oil streaks were observed along the fuselage belly. An initial examination of the engine revealed that metal fragments were trapped in the oil suction screen. About 1/4 quart of oil was found in the sump. The No. 6 piston did not move when the engine was rotated by hand.

According to FAA records, the pilot held a private pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single-engine land, helicopter, and instrument airplane. His most recent FAA third-class medical certificate was issued April 6, 2016. The pilot reported 2,100 hours of total flight experience of which 1,200 were in the same make and model as the accident airplane.

The pilot reported that the airplane's most recent annual inspection was completed on September 9, 2016, about 25 flight hours prior to the accident. The engine had accrued 2,250 hours since new, and about 860 hours since overhaul.

The engine was retained for further examination.