Casualties unknown

1989-11-18: Beech 58 (N6659D) — Crider, William A. — Fernandina Bch, FL

Fernandina Bch, FL, US

On November 18, 1989, a Beech 58 (registration N6659D) operated by Crider, William A. was involved in an aviation accident near Fernandina Bch, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO PERFORM THE EMERGENCY GEAR EXTENSION PROCEDURE TO ASSURE THAT THE GEAR WAS DOWN AND LOCKED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot shut down a right engine due to low oil pressure. After extending landing gear, electrical power was lost. The gear collapsed during landing, damaging the aircraft. Investigation found carbon debris under an oil pressure relief valve seat and failed voltage regulators.

Inflight Engine Shutdown

While in flight, the pilot noticed that the oil pressure indicator for the right engine had dropped to the red line. In response, he shut down the engine and feathered its propeller.

Electrical Failure and Gear Extension

After entering the traffic pattern for landing, the pilot lowered the landing gear. Immediately thereafter, the radar and radios became inoperative, indicating a complete loss of electrical power. The pilot reported that he heard and felt the landing gear extend, but the downlock lights did not illuminate.

Approach and Landing Sequence

To create adequate spacing behind another aircraft, the pilot performed a 360-degree turn. He then continued the approach to land. During the landing rollout, the landing gear collapsed, causing damage to the aircraft.

Post-Accident Investigation

An examination of the right engine found that the low oil pressure condition originated from a piece of carbon debris under the seat of the oil pressure relief valve. Both of the aircraft's alternators were tested and found to be operating satisfactorily. However, both voltage regulators had experienced internal failures, and both alternator circuit breakers were in the tripped (popped) position.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29842. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.