On July 10, 1978, a Beechcraft 90 King Air (registration N278DU) operated by Great Western Mineral Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Aurora, United States of America during takeoff. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall during initial climb due to engine failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: failure of the fuel pump system, inadequate preflight preparation, improperly loaded aircraft, left engine boost pump inoperative, switched off, crossfeed off,… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
After takeoff from Denver-Stapleton Airport, a left engine failure caused a stall and crash in Aurora. All six occupants were killed, and the aircraft was destroyed. Probable cause: stall during initial climb due to engine failure for undetermined reasons, with contributing factors including fuel system failure and improper loading.
Accident Narrative
Following departure from Denver-Stapleton Airport, the aircraft experienced a failure of the left engine during the climb phase. The pilot subsequently lost control, and the airplane stalled before crashing in flames in the Aurora district. The impact and post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft. All six occupants onboard were killed; there were no injuries on the ground.
Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a stall during initial climb resulting from an engine failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors identified include failure of the fuel pump system, inadequate preflight preparation, an improperly loaded aircraft, the left engine boost pump being inoperative or switched off, the crossfeed being off, and the aircraft being approximately 700 pounds over maximum gross weight.
What happened in the 10 Jul 1978 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident near Aurora, United States of America?
After takeoff from Denver-Stapleton Airport, a left engine failure caused a stall and crash in Aurora. All six occupants were killed, and the aircraft was destroyed. Probable cause: stall during initial climb due to engine failure for undetermined reasons, with contributing factors including fuel system failure and…
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Jul 1978 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Jul 1978 involved a Beechcraft 90 King Air, registration N278DU, operated by Great Western Mineral Corporation, at Aurora, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Stall during initial climb due to engine failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: failure of the fuel pump system, inadequate preflight preparation, improperly loaded aircraft, left engine boost pump inoperative, switched off, crossfeed off, approximately 700 lbs over max gross weight.
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