Casualties unknown

1996-05-18: Beech 58 (N58KD) — Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA, US

On May 18, 1996, a Beech 58 (registration N58KD) was involved in an aviation accident near Los Angeles, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: an interruption of fuel flow to the right engine for undetermined nonmechanical reasons. A contributing factor was the pilot's failure to keep the right engine's propeller feathered which reduced the airplane single engine performance capabilities. 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.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the right engine of a twin-engine airplane lost power, leading to a forced landing on a golf course. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical discrepancies.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that after adding 60 gallons of fuel and performing a preflight inspection—which included draining the fuel sumps with no evidence of contaminants—both engines started normally. No discrepancies were observed during pre-takeoff engine and propeller checks.

Takeoff and Engine Failure

During takeoff, the airplane lifted off at the usual location. After establishing a positive rate of climb, the landing gear was retracted. Suddenly, the right engine lost all power, and the fuel flow indicator dropped to zero gallons per hour. The pilot activated the fuel boost pump, but the engine did not restart, and the propeller was feathered.

Attempts to Restore Power

The pilot subsequently unfeathered the right engine's propeller, advanced the right throttle, and again switched on the boost pump. None of these actions restored engine power, and the airplane could not maintain altitude. Unable to return to the airport, the pilot performed a forced landing on the rough terrain of a nearby golf course.

Post-Accident Examination

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) personnel examined the airplane and its maintenance records. No discrepancies were found with the fuel pump, fuel metering unit, manifold valve, or the injector lines and nozzles.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05812. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.