On April 8, 1989, a Beech C-45H (registration N711BF) was involved in an aviation accident near Tampa, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the left engine due to fuel contamination. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, the left engine of a turbine-powered C45-H failed due to fuel contamination. The pilot performed a forced landing off the departure end of the runway with the right engine still producing power. Post-accident fuel analysis revealed sand and fiber contamination; its source was not determined.
Accident Overview
The pilot of a turbine-powered C45-H aircraft encountered a failure of the left engine shortly after takeoff. The failure was attributed to fuel contamination. Following the engine failure, the pilot executed a forced landing off the departure end of the runway.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
During the forced landing, the right engine continued to develop power, as evidenced by propeller signatures and damage sustained during ground contact. The aircraft came to rest off the runway.
Fuel Contamination Investigation
Post-accident fuel analysis identified sand and fiber contamination in the fuel system. The pilot had refueled the aircraft just before the flight, but the source of the contamination could not be determined.
Probable cause
Failure of the left engine due to fuel contamination.
What happened in the 8 Apr 1989 Beech C-45H accident near Tampa, FL?
After takeoff, the left engine of a turbine-powered C45-H failed due to fuel contamination. The pilot performed a forced landing off the departure end of the runway with the right engine still producing power. Post-accident fuel analysis revealed sand and fiber contamination; its source was not determined.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Apr 1989 involved a Beech C-45H, registration N711BF, at Tampa, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the left engine due to fuel contamination.
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