On May 29, 1990, a Beech B-55 (registration N8390N) was involved in an aviation accident near Detroit, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S EXECUTION OF A TURN SHORTLY AFTER TAKEOFF RESULTING IN LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO FUEL STARVATION AND THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S EXECUTION OF A TURN BACK TO THE AIRPORT RESULTING IN FUEL STARVATION OF THE SECOND ENGINE WHICH RESULTED IN A… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff climb, the pilot initiated a right turn at 100 feet and 140 mph, then lost power in the left engine. After attempting a left turn to return, the right engine also lost power. Investigation found no fuel in engine supply lines despite half-full wing tanks; turning takeoffs are prohibited in this aircraft due to unbaffled tanks.
Circumstances
During the takeoff climb, the aircraft was in a right turn at an altitude of 100 feet above ground level and an airspeed of 140 miles per hour when the left engine lost power. The pilot then attempted to turn left to return to the field, and subsequently the right engine also lost power.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the fuel tanks in each wing were approximately half full. However, no fuel was found in either engine from the engine-driven fuel pump to the flow divider. The aircraft's configuration includes unbaffled fuel tanks, and turning takeoffs are a prohibited maneuver in this aircraft due to that design characteristic.
What happened in the 29 May 1990 Beech B-55 accident near Detroit, MI?
During takeoff climb, the pilot initiated a right turn at 100 feet and 140 mph, then lost power in the left engine. After attempting a left turn to return, the right engine also lost power. Investigation found no fuel in engine supply lines despite half-full wing tanks; turning takeoffs are prohibited in this…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 May 1990 involved a Beech B-55, registration N8390N, at Detroit, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S EXECUTION OF A TURN SHORTLY AFTER TAKEOFF RESULTING IN LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO FUEL STARVATION AND THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S EXECUTION OF A TURN BACK TO THE AIRPORT RESULTING IN FUEL STARVATION OF THE SECOND ENGINE WHICH RESULTED IN A FORCED LANDING.
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