On December 29, 1992, an Aero Commander AC-500B (registration N2783Q) operated by Corporate Air was involved in an aviation accident near Billings, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER ON BOTH ENGINES FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS AND LEFT MAIN LANDING GEAR NOT DOWN AND LOCKED ON TOUCHDOWN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported loss of power on both engines during initial climb and maneuvering, leading to a forced landing short of the runway where the left main landing gear collapsed.
Accident Narrative
During the initial climb after takeoff, the pilot experienced a loss of power on the left engine. He initiated a turn back to the airport for landing. While maneuvering to land, the right engine also lost power, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing. The aircraft touched down short of the runway before the left main landing gear was down and locked. Upon touchdown, the gear collapsed.
Post-Accident Examination
Approximately 45 minutes after the accident, both engines were tested and produced full power. An examination of the aircraft after the mishap did not reveal any malfunction or failure that would have caused the loss of engine power.