On July 22, 1991, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N54819) operated by Charles O'donnell was involved in an aviation accident near Templeton, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A broken fuel fitting on the left fuel selector unit and worn threads on a fuel fitting on the right engine, resulting in fuel starvation power loss to both engines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, the left engine lost power. Restart attempts failed. After a single-engine landing, the right engine failed during go-around. Investigation found fuel fitting issues caused fuel starvation.
Accident Overview
A cross-country flight experienced a complete loss of power from the left engine. The pilot attempted normal restart procedures, including selecting the cross-feed position, but these did not restore power.
Engine Failure Sequence
The pilot diverted to an en route airport for a single-engine approach and landing. During the landing roll or after touching down, the pilot initiated a go-around. As the go-around was started, a complete power loss occurred to the right engine. The airplane subsequently impacted trees and terrain off the departure end of the runway.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the fuel system revealed a broken fuel fitting on the left fuel selector unit. Additionally, worn threads were found on a fuel fitting on the right engine. These discrepancies resulted in fuel starvation, leading to the power loss of both engines.
Probable cause
A broken fuel fitting on the left fuel selector unit and worn threads on a fuel fitting on the right engine, resulting in fuel starvation power loss to both engines.