What happened
On the morning of January 6, 2023, a Piper PA-23-250 aircraft, registered N13984, departed Exuma International Airport in the Bahamas bound for Hog Cay. The flight was operating under visual flight rules with three people on board. Shortly after takeoff from runway 12, while climbing at approximately 250 feet above the ground, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of power in the right engine, which was immediately followed by a loss of power in the left engine.
In an attempt to manage the emergency, the pilot identified a cleared area of land near the threshold of runway 3 and steered the aircraft toward a heading of 130°. During the descent, the aircraft's left wingtip struck several trees, causing the plane to spin before coming to a rest. Despite the impact, there were no injuries to the pilot or passengers, who were able to exit the aircraft and contact emergency services via mobile phone.
The investigation
Investigators from the AAID examined the wreckage located approximately 0.38 nautical miles from the airport. The inspection revealed significant damage to both wings, the propellers, the nose section, and the underside of the fuselage. The left wing was found detached from the aircraft, and the nosecone had separated from the airframe.
Regarding the aircraft's fuel system, investigators noted that 46.1 gallons of Avgas had been added prior to the flight. While the right fuel cell bladder remained intact and contained fuel, a trail of fluid was observed near the detached left wing. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting a valid commercial multi-engine rating, and confirmed that the aircraft's maintenance records complied with US Federal Aviation Regulations.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a dual loss of power due to fuel starvation.
- The fuel crossfeed switch was found in the "ON" position at the time of the accident.
- Both fuel selectors were positioned to the outboard tanks.
- The aircraft was properly maintained and held a valid certificate of airworthiness.
- Weather and navigational aids were not contributing factors to the event.
- The configuration of the fuel system, specifically the use of the crossfeed, may have created conditions conducive to an interruption in fuel flow.