On December 5, 1992, a Beech 95-B55B (registration N7479N) operated by Gene Stewart, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Calera, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The investigation revealed that one of the fuel tank selector valves was in the 'AUX' tank position, which is contrary to the aircraft checklist that states auxiliary tanks should only be used in level flight. No mechanical failure was found in the engines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot and five passengers were on a night cross-country flight in IMC when both engines failed. The aircraft crashed into a rock quarry wall, and investigation found a fuel selector valve in the auxiliary tank position, contrary to the checklist.
Accident Overview
A commercial pilot and five passengers were conducting a cross-country flight at night in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). While descending for landing, the pilot reported an engine failure, stating 'engine out.' Shortly thereafter, he reported that both engines were 'cutting out.' The flight was receiving vectors to a closer airport when the aircraft crashed into the wall of a deep rock quarry. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed that one of the fuel tank selector valves was in the 'AUX' (auxiliary) tank position. According to the aircraft checklist, the auxiliary tanks are to be used only in level flight. A teardown and inspection of the engines and their components did not reveal any evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction.
The accident occurred while the pilot was attempting to reach an alternate airport after experiencing power loss. The specific sequence of events leading to the dual engine failure could not be determined beyond the incorrect fuel selector position.
Probable cause
The investigation revealed that one of the fuel tank selector valves was in the 'AUX' tank position, which is contrary to the aircraft checklist that states auxiliary tanks should only be used in level flight. No mechanical failure was found in the engines.