Casualties unknown

1991-07-17: Beech 55B (N54339) — U.s. Navy Moffett Field Navy — Cupertino, CA

Cupertino, CA, US

On July 17, 1991, a Beech 55B (registration N54339) operated by U.s. Navy Moffett Field Navy was involved in an aviation accident near Cupertino, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL EXHAUSTION WHICH RESULTED FROM THE PILOT INACCURATELY CALCULATING FUEL CONSUMPTION AND FUEL REQUIREMENTS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During a precision approach radar (PAR) final approach, an aircraft experienced total loss of power in both engines. The pilot executed a forced landing on an interstate highway, during which the right main landing gear struck a bus. The aircraft then collided with a lane divider and came to rest. Post-accident inspection found no fuel in any fuel tanks.

Incident Overview

A twin-engine aircraft was conducting a precision approach radar (PAR) final approach when a total loss of power occurred in the left engine. The pilot secured the left engine and subsequently observed that the right engine was also losing power. The pilot then secured the right engine and initiated a power-off forced landing.

Events During Approach

During the descent, the pilot aimed for an interstate highway as a landing site. As the aircraft descended, the right main landing gear made contact with the top of a bus. The pilot continued the descent and touched down on the highway. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with a lane divider and came to rest.

Forced Landing

The pilot's attempt to land on the highway was necessitated by the dual engine failure. The specific location and time of day are not documented. No information regarding occupants, injuries, or aircraft damage beyond the reported events is available.

Post-Accident Inspection

An FAA safety inspector examined the aircraft at the scene. The inspection revealed no evidence of fuel in any of the aircraft's fuel tanks. The probable cause of the engine failures has not been stated in the available source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17606. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.