On September 21, 1989, a Beech 80 (registration N132BA) operated by Bemidji Air Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Littlefork, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A broken wire on an electrical cannon plug, located on the right engine firewall, that had shorted out. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an IFR cargo operation, the aircraft suffered a total loss of electrical power. The pilot descended to VFR conditions and attempted an off-airport landing in an open field. Unable to extend the landing gear manually, he performed a gear-up landing. The aircraft slid and struck a rock fence.
Narrative
During an instrument flight rules (IFR) cargo operation, the pilot reported a total loss of electrical power. He descended to visual flight rules (VFR) conditions and elected to attempt an off-airport landing in an open field. After being unable to extend the landing gear manually, the pilot decided to land with the gear retracted. Following touchdown, the aircraft slid for a considerable distance across the field before striking a rock fence.
Post-Accident Investigation
Post-accident investigation of the aircraft revealed a broken wire on an electrical cannon plug located on the right engine firewall. The investigation determined that this broken wire had shorted out, resulting in the total loss of electrical power experienced during the flight.
Probable cause
A broken wire on an electrical cannon plug, located on the right engine firewall, that had shorted out.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 21 Sept 1989 Beech 80 accident near Littlefork, MN?
During an IFR cargo operation, the aircraft suffered a total loss of electrical power. The pilot descended to VFR conditions and attempted an off-airport landing in an open field. Unable to extend the landing gear manually, he performed a gear-up landing. The aircraft slid and struck a rock fence.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Sept 1989 Beech 80 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Sept 1989 involved a Beech 80, registration N132BA, operated by Bemidji Air Service, Inc., at Littlefork, MN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A broken wire on an electrical cannon plug, located on the right engine firewall, that had shorted out.
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