Dual Engine Power Loss During Single-Engine Go-Around

Casualties unknown • Templeton, MA, US

A cross-country flight ended in an impact with trees and terrain after a sequence of engine failures led to total power loss during a single-engine go-around.

What happened

During a daytime cross-country flight, the airplane experienced a complete loss of power from the left engine. The pilot attempted normal restart procedures, which included selecting the cross-feed position, but these efforts failed to restore power to the left engine.

Following the initial failure, the pilot diverted to an en route airport to perform a single-engine approach and landing. However, as the pilot initiated a single-engine go-around, a complete loss of power occurred to the right engine as well. The aircraft subsequently impacted trees and terrain located off the departure end of the runway.

The investigation

Mechanical examination of the aircraft revealed two distinct failures contributing to the dual engine loss. Investigators found a broken fuel fitting on the left fuel selector unit. Additionally, the investigation identified worn threads on a fuel fitting located on the right engine.

Probable cause

The simultaneous loss of power to both engines was caused by fuel starvation resulting from a broken fuel fitting on the left fuel selector and worn threads on a fuel fitting on the right engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-07-22 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Templeton, MA?

A cross-country flight ended in an impact with trees and terrain after a sequence of engine failures led to total power loss during a single-engine go-around.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-07-22 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N54819, operated by Charles O'donnell, at Templeton, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The simultaneous loss of power to both engines was caused by fuel starvation resulting from a broken fuel fitting on the left fuel selector and worn threads on a fuel fitting on the right engine.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17674. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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