On January 6, 1992, an Aero Commander 560E (registration N8434C) operated by Marlor Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Boca Raton, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to reposition the fuel selectors after each engine quit, which resulted in fuel starvation for both engines and subsequent loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost both engines due to fuel starvation during cruise flight, failed to manage the propellers or fuel selectors, and crashed into a tree and power line pole while diverting.
What happened
The aircraft was operating in cruise flight with the intention of returning to the departure airport. During this phase of the flight, the right engine quit operation due to fuel starvation. The pilot did not feather the propeller on the failed engine nor secure the engine controls. After being advised of a nearby airport, the pilot diverted to land there. However, the left engine subsequently quit due to fuel starvation as well. During the descent toward the alternate airport, the aircraft collided with a tree and a power line pole.
The investigation
The pilot stated that he did not reposition the fuel selectors after each engine quit. This failure to manage the fuel system directly contributed to the loss of both engines.
Findings
fuel starvation caused the right engine to quit during cruise flight.
The pilot failed to feather the propeller or secure the engine after the first failure.
fuel starvation also caused the left engine to quit during the diversion.
The aircraft collided with a tree and power line pole during descent.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to reposition the fuel selectors after each engine quit, which resulted in fuel starvation for both engines and subsequent loss of control.
What happened in the 6 Jan 1992 Aero Commander 560E accident near Boca Raton, FL?
A pilot lost both engines due to fuel starvation during cruise flight, failed to manage the propellers or fuel selectors, and crashed into a tree and power line pole while diverting.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jan 1992 involved an Aero Commander 560E, registration N8434C, operated by Marlor Corporation, at Boca Raton, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to reposition the fuel selectors after each engine quit, which resulted in fuel starvation for both engines and subsequent loss of control.
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