Casualties unknown

Command Airways Flight 4887 Experiences Dual Engine Power Loss in IMC (N163DD)

Albany, NY, US

On March 24, 1989, a Short Brothers SD3-60 (registration N163DD) operated by Command Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Albany, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE CREW'S FAILURE TO USE FULL ENGINE ANTI-ICE SYSTEMS WHICH RESULTED IN ICE BLOCKING THE ENGINE INLETS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

Command Airways Flight 4887 lost power on both engines while cruising at 7,000 feet in IMC near Albany, NY. The pilot restarted one engine and landed safely. Water was found in both engine cowlings; tests showed no discrepancies.

Incident Summary

Command Airways Flight 4887 reported a loss of power on both engines while operating under instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) at a cruise altitude of 7,000 feet. The aircraft was approximately 28 nautical miles south of Albany, New York, at the time of the incident. The pilot was able to restart the number 1 engine and subsequently land the aircraft without any further problems.

Engine Findings

After the incident, evidence of water was found in the cowling of both engines. Subsequent tests conducted on the engines revealed no discrepancies or malfunctions.

Anti-Ice Configuration

At the time of the flameouts, the crew had the anti-ice system set to Level 3 'ON', with the exception of the engine cowling veins and windshield.

Conclusion

The investigation did not identify a specific cause for the dual engine power loss. The presence of water in the cowlings was noted, but engine tests showed no anomalies.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27987. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.