On May 17, 1998, a Cessna 337B (registration N5471S) was involved in an aviation accident near Montgomery, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper decision to initiate a takeoff with the rear engine inoperative, which resulted in an airplane that could not climb sufficiently to clear obstacles (trees). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Cessna 337 attempted a single-engine takeoff with the rear propeller unfeathered, used full runway length, and struck trees after failing to climb.
Narrative
The pilot of a Cessna 337 was unable to start the rear engine. He then informed several individuals of his intention to perform a takeoff using only the front engine. The pilot initiated the takeoff with the rear engine not operating and the rear propeller remaining in an unfeathered configuration. During the takeoff roll, the airplane utilized the entire 5,000-foot runway to become airborne. After lift-off, the airplane did not climb and subsequently impacted trees located beyond the departure end of the runway.
Findings
An FAA inspector reported that a placard in the cockpit stated, 'DO NOT INITIATE SINGLE ENGINE TAKEOFF.' Examination of the airplane revealed that the rear propeller was not feathered, and the front propeller had separated from the engine at the crankshaft. No other contributing factors or causal links are provided in the source material.
What happened in the 17 May 1998 Cessna 337B accident near Montgomery, NY?
A Cessna 337 attempted a single-engine takeoff with the rear propeller unfeathered, used full runway length, and struck trees after failing to climb.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 May 1998 involved a Cessna 337B, registration N5471S, at Montgomery, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper decision to initiate a takeoff with the rear engine inoperative, which resulted in an airplane that could not climb sufficiently to clear obstacles (trees).
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