On April 9, 1987, a Lockheed L-382G (registration N517SJ) operated by Southern Air Transport was involved in an aviation accident near Travis Afb, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a go-around after a balked landing, both engines failed to respond to throttle input due to oil/tar residue accumulation. The instructor lost control after flap retraction reduced hydraulic pressure, resulting in a crash and postcrash fire.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred during a go-around after a balked landing. The instructor took over the controls and initiated the go-around following a student landing in an improper attitude. Engines number 1 and 2 failed to respond when the throttles were advanced; both engines decelerated. Airspeed decreased during the go-around. The flaps were retracted, causing a reduction in hydraulic pressure. The instructor was unable to maintain VMC speed and subsequently lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft crashed in a steep left turn and was destroyed by a postcrash fire. The airfield perimeter fence was damaged.
Aircraft and Engines
The aircraft was equipped with two engines. Maintenance records revealed a history of recent engine and propeller oil leaks. There was no record of engine washes after the leaks, although such washes were required by maintenance procedures.
Post-Accident Examination
Teardown and testing of engines number 1 and 2 revealed a heavy accumulation of oil and tar residues on the bleed valves and throughout the compressors. This residue limited the ability of the engines to respond to throttle movement.