What happened
On September 4, 2022, a Beech 58 aircraft, registration N142DR, was involved in a fatal accident near Galt, California. The flight, operated under Part 91 regulations, began at McClellan Airfield in Sacramento. The crew traveled to several airports, including Calaveras County Airport, Modesto City-County Airport, and Tracy Municipal Airport, performing various maneuvers and traffic pattern work.
After departing Tracy Municipal Airport at approximately 0823, the airplane climbed to 4,800 feet and proceeded northeast. The aircraft performed two 360-degree turns—one to the right and one to the left. Following these turns, the airplane climbed to 5,000 feet. At approximately 0837, the airspeed reduced to 80 knots. Engine data monitor records indicated that during this period, fuel flow to both engines dropped significantly. Shortly after, the airspeed increased while the altitude began to decrease.
At approximately 0839, a second speed reduction occurred. Data showed the fuel flow on the left engine decreased to approximately 3 gallons per hour, while the fuel flow on the right engine increased to 29 gallons per hour. Approximately 20 seconds later, the right engine's fuel flow dropped to zero. At 0840, the airplane began a rapid descent in a continuous left turn. Witnesses near the site reported seeing the airplane spinning with a flat attitude and noted that the engine noise had stopped. The aircraft impacted a body of water, resulting in 2 fatal injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found the airplane rested in a body of water covered with vegetation. The left propeller had separated from the engine at the crankshaft, and the cabin structure showed displacement over the left wing. The underside of the fuselage and both wings exhibited substantial upward crushing.
Mechanical examination of the engines and airframe revealed no malfunctions or failures that would have prevented normal operation. Flight control continuity was established, and all breaks found in the components were consistent with forces experienced during impact. The investigation noted that the flight characteristics and engine data were consistent with a Vmc demonstration, a maneuver where power is reduced on the critical engine to test directional control.
Findings
- The crew was performing maneuvers consistent with training, including a power-off stall task and a Vmc demonstration.
- During the maneuver, the airspeed decreased while the engine data showed asymmetric power settings consistent with the procedure.
- The aircraft entered an aerodynamic stall/spin from which recovery was not achieved.