AOPA Air Safety Institute

Early Analysis: Cessna 172 Prop Loss

The Air Safety Institute examined a May 28 incident in which a Cessna 172S, operating a flight‑training sortie from Rochester International Airport, suffered smoke, a suspected cockpit fire, oil‑filled windscreen and total engine failure, ultimately losing its propeller before landing safely at Ledgedale Airport. The crew—CFI Scott Murphy and a novice student—declared a Mayday within minutes of departure, reported fire, and managed a controlled glide. Analysis of FlightAware data and ATC audio showed the aircraft maintained best‑glide speed, benefitted from a tail‑wind shift, and likely gained additional glide range when the propeller separated, reducing drag by roughly 20% as documented in prior AOPA testing. Murphy’s calm, measured communications and his post‑flight interview highlighted rigorous “chair‑flying” emergency drills, deep system knowledge, and a supportive CFI community as key factors in the successful outcome. He noted the sudden pop and bang that preceded the prop loss, the rapid oil fouling of the windscreen, and the quiet cockpit that signaled the engine’s demise. The incident, classified as an incident rather than an accident, is under FAA investigation to determine the root cause of the propeller failure. For pilots, the case underscores the critical value of regular emergency procedure rehearsals, understanding aircraft performance without a wind‑milling prop, and leveraging ATC assistance during crises.