On May 14, 1985, a Cessna 310F (registration N5838X) was involved in an aviation accident near Marfa, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot experienced a partial power loss from the right engine during takeoff climb and in his haste to circle back and land did not allow the aircraft to gain altitude; he then failed to maintain adequate airspeed and as a result lost control of the… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experiencing right engine partial power loss on takeoff climb, rushed to return, failed to gain altitude or maintain airspeed, stalled, and crashed. Post-accident inspection revealed clogged air filter and broken air door hinges.
Accident Description
The pilot experienced a partial power loss from the right engine during the takeoff climb. In his haste to circle back and land, he did not allow the aircraft to gain altitude. He then failed to maintain adequate airspeed and, as a result, lost control of the aircraft and stalled without sufficient altitude to effect recovery before ground impact.
Post-Accident Findings
Examination of the aircraft after the accident disclosed several discrepancies:
The induction air filter was clogged with dirt and debris.
The automatic air door hinge was broken, preventing the door from remaining closed.
The automatic air door hinge behind the manual alternate air butterfly was broken.
The spark plugs on the right engine were carbon fouled.
These mechanical issues were noted but the primary cause was the pilot's actions during the emergency.
Probable cause
The pilot experienced a partial power loss from the right engine during takeoff climb and in his haste to circle back and land did not allow the aircraft to gain altitude; he then failed to maintain adequate airspeed and as a result lost control of the aircraft and stalled without sufficient altitude to effect recovery before ground impact.