On October 3, 1969, a Beechcraft 80 Queen Air (registration N590CA) operated by Metro Commuter Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Denver-Stapleton, United States of America during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure or malfunction during a missed approach procedure. The accident was the consequence of the combination of the following factors: - Improper operation of powerplant and powerplant controls, - Ice induction, - Icing conditions including sleet and… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a missed approach in poor weather, the left engine failed. The airplane stalled and crashed short of the runway threshold, killing five occupants and seriously injuring two passengers.
Accident
The approach to Denver-Stapleton was conducted in poor weather conditions, below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) for an ASR approach. Upon reaching the decision height, the pilot-in-command could not locate the runway and initiated a go-around. During the missed approach, the left engine failed. The airplane subsequently stalled and impacted terrain short of the runway threshold. Two passengers sustained serious injuries, and five other occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was an engine failure or malfunction during the missed approach procedure. The accident resulted from the combination of the following factors:
Improper operation of powerplant and powerplant controls
Ice induction
Icing conditions including sleet and freezing rain
The pilot failed to maintain flying speed
Airframe ice
Complete failure of the left engine
Incorrect use of alt air left engine
Weather above DH for AST approach offered and accepted by the pilot