Casualties unknown

2001-12-06: Cessna 310 (N5043J) — Sidney, MT

Sidney, MT, US

On December 6, 2001, a Cessna 310 (registration N5043J) was involved in an aviation accident near Sidney, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper abort procedure and inadequate remedial action, leading to a loss of directional control after losing power in one engine during the takeoff roll. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff, the right engine lost power. The pilot partially retarded the left throttle and later advanced it to clear a fence. The aircraft departed the runway, struck the fence, and stopped. No mechanical anomalies were found.

Event Sequence

During the takeoff roll, with the nose wheel elevated and both main wheels on the runway, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of power on the right engine. The pilot initiated an abort sequence but, instead of pulling both throttles to idle, he partially retarded the left power lever. This action did not sufficiently reduce asymmetrical thrust, causing the aircraft to depart the right side of the runway at a 30-degree angle.

Pilot Actions

After leaving the runway, the aircraft entered terrain partially covered by snow. The pilot observed the aircraft heading toward a perimeter fence. Rather than executing the published abort procedure, he pushed the left power lever back to full power. The pilot stated he did this to store energy to raise the nose before impacting the fence, thereby striking the fence with the bottom of the aircraft.

Post-Accident Measurements and Findings

Post-accident measurements indicated the aircraft traveled 425 feet from its runway entry point to where it departed the side, then an additional 670 feet before hitting the fence. After breaking six fence support poles and bending four others, it traveled another 196 feet before stopping. A post-accident inspection of the aircraft and its systems revealed no malfunctions or anomalies that would have contributed to a loss of engine power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20011221X02434. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.