Casualties unknown

1985-01-08: Swearingen SA-227-AC (N3110J) — Comair — Covington, KY

Covington, KY, US

On January 8, 1985, a Swearingen SA-227-AC (registration N3110J) operated by Comair was involved in an aviation accident near Covington, KY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During approach after an icing encounter, both engines lost power. Ice was found on the ground; aircraft had history of flameouts from spinner ice. No specific manual warning to use continuous ignition in icing.

Incident

During a flight at 6,000 feet MSL, the aircrew encountered icing conditions and activated the de-ice and anti-ice equipment. After descending and exiting the icing conditions, the de-ice and anti-ice equipment was deactivated. The captain inspected the propeller spinners and observed a small buildup of ice, which was considered minimal. Subsequently, the continuous ignition was turned off. Shortly thereafter, while on final approach at approximately 1,000 feet AGL and 1 to 1.5 miles from the airport, the right engine lost power without warning. The copilot feathered the right propeller, and the approach was continued. However, at about 200 feet AGL, the other engine also lost power. The aircraft was landed without further incident.

Investigation

During the investigation, ice was found on the ground under the wings. No mechanical problems or fuel contamination were discovered. The aircraft had a history of flameouts due to ice buildup and release from the spinners. The ignition switch was labeled with positions 'NORM', 'CONT', and 'OVRD'. To obtain continuous ignition in flight, the switch must be in the 'OVRD' position. There was no specific warning in the flight manual to use continuous ignition (OVRD) in icing conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35476. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.