Engine failure during cargo flight to Wright-Patterson AFB

No fatalities • Piqua, United States of America • Flight

A US Air Force cargo flight experienced total engine failure while descending toward its destination, resulting in an emergency landing and ground collision.

What happened

On a scheduled cargo mission for the US Air Force, a flight departed from Madison-Truax Field at 16:10 local time. The aircraft was en route to Wright-Patterson AFB when it began its descent north of Dayton.

During this approach phase, all four engines of the aircraft ceased operation at the same time. In response to the loss of power, the crew initiated an emergency landing procedure in a nearby field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft continued to slide across the terrain, eventually striking a bridge pile and several vehicles located on the ground.

The impact resulted in no fatalities among those on the ground, though the three crew members sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was subsequently determined to be a total loss due to extensive damage.

Findings

Investigations into the incident concluded that the simultaneous failure of all engines was the result of fuel exhaustion. The findings also highlighted deficiencies in the crew's preflight procedures, specifically noting that fuel consumption calculations were inaccurate and that preflight preparations were insufficient.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered total engine failure due to running out of fuel following improper preflight planning and incorrect fuel usage estimates.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1965-10-14 Armstrong Whitworth AW.650 Argosy accident near Piqua, United States of America?

A US Air Force cargo flight experienced total engine failure while descending toward its destination, resulting in an emergency landing and ground collision.

Were there any fatalities in the 1965-10-14 Armstrong Whitworth AW.650 Argosy accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1965-10-14 involved a Armstrong Whitworth AW.650 Argosy, registration N601Z, operated by Zantop Air Transport, at Piqua, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft suffered total engine failure due to running out of fuel following improper preflight planning and incorrect fuel usage estimates.

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