Casualties unknown

Engine and Electrical Failure Precede Runway Excursion (N176BJ)

Knoxville, TN, US

On March 12, 1999, a Mitsubishi MU-2B-20 (registration N176BJ) operated by Gregory K. Benson was involved in an aviation accident near Knoxville, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. Contributing to the accident was the failure of the landing gear to extend for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

Approximately 30 minutes into flight, a twin-engine airplane experienced a right engine power loss followed by complete electrical failure. The pilot executed an emergency landing, but the aircraft skidded off the runway. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical malfunctions.

Flight Timeline

About 30 minutes after departure, the right engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine without success and subsequently secured the right engine, feathering the propeller. Shortly after the restart attempt, the pilot reported a complete loss of electrical power, rendering the radios inoperable. The pilot placed the landing gear lever in the down position and established an approach to runway 5R for an emergency landing. After touchdown, the airplane skidded off the left side of the runway.

Examination Findings

Post-accident examination of the airframe and engine assemblies did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions or component failures. A functional check of the electrical system also found no mechanical problems. When the master switch was turned on, 75% of the battery power was restored to the airplane, and the electrical power was sufficient to activate the landing gear doors. Examination of the fuel system traced fuel from the tank to the fuel control unit. The right fuel shut-off valve was found to function normally, with no mechanical issues discovered.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00258. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.