On May 5, 1984, a Cessna 337D (registration N86094) operated by Herbert Zach was involved in an aviation accident near New Paltz, NY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Both engines lost power about 5 minutes after departure, forcing the pilot to make a gear-up landing approximately 1 mile from the airport. No preimpact mechanical failure was found.
Incident Overview
Approximately five minutes after departing the airport, the front engine began to gradually lose power. The pilot turned the aircraft back toward the airport and adjusted the fuel selector to various settings. Despite these actions, the front engine continued to lose power, and shortly thereafter the rear engine also began losing power.
Forced Landing
Subsequently, both engines quit entirely. The pilot executed a forced landing with the landing gear retracted, touching down approximately one mile from the airport.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical failure.