Verdictly
Settlement
Dallas County • 2019

Fatal Plane Engine Defect Case Settles for $5 Million

One driver's airplane engine failed during flight, causing it to crash. The pilot and a passenger were killed. The estates of the deceased sued the engine manufacturer, alleging negligent design and manufacture. The defense argued the pilot's negligence caused the crash. The parties settled.

Case Information Updated: October 2025

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Wrongful Death
Other Accident

Case Outcome

Outcome
Settlement
Amount
$5,000,000
County
Dallas County, TX
Resolved
2019

Injury & Accident Details

Injury Type
Wrongful Death
Accident Type
Other
Case Type
Motor Vehicle Accident

Case Overview

A single-engine airplane crashed into a field following a loss of engine power, resulting in the fatalities of the pilot and a passenger. An investigation indicated the aircraft's crankshaft suffered a fatigue failure during the flight. The estates of the deceased subsequently filed a lawsuit.

The plaintiffs sued Superior Air Parts, Inc., alleging negligent design of the engine. They also brought claims against Superior Air Parts, Inc. and Ruhrtaler Gesenkschmiede F.W. Wengeler GmbH & Co. KG for negligent manufacture of the crankshaft. The plaintiffs contended that the crankshaft's failure stemmed from internal stress related to misfiring pistons or the temperatures used during forging. They further asserted that Superior Air Parts, Inc. failed to adequately test the engine prior to its release and responded slowly to indications of premature engine failures.

The defense argued that the pilot's negligence caused the incident. The parties ultimately reached a settlement agreement. The settlement totaled $5 million, with Superior Air Parts, Inc. contributing $4.95 million of that amount.

VerdictlyTM Score

50
/100
Questionable

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