Forced landing following dual engine failure

No fatalities • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of America • Flight

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing on a highway after experiencing successive failures of both engines during level flight.

What happened

During a period of level flight, the pilot experienced a failure of the left engine, which was accompanied by a fire warning light. In response to the warning, the pilot shut down the left engine. Shortly thereafter, the right engine began to lose power and operated irregularly. The pilot attempted to restart the left engine; however, neither engine was able to produce sufficient thrust to maintain the aircraft's altitude.

As a result of the loss of power, the pilot performed a forced landing on a highway. During the descent and impact, the aircraft struck a vehicle, which subsequently resulted in a fire. There were no fatalities reported in the incident.

Findings

An investigation into the left engine identified a cross-threaded fuel nozzle fitting, noting soot patterns located aft of the component. While the failure of the left engine was linked to this mechanical issue, investigators found no specific cause for the subsequent malfunction of the right engine. Additionally, the investigation found no documentation or evidence regarding the completion of an annual inspection for the aircraft.

Probable cause

A cross-threaded fuel nozzle fitting caused a failure in the left engine, followed by an unexplained power loss in the right engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-05-25 Beechcraft 80 Queen Air accident near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of America?

A pilot was forced to perform an emergency landing on a highway after experiencing successive failures of both engines during level flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-05-25 Beechcraft 80 Queen Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-05-25 involved a Beechcraft 80 Queen Air, registration N5128Y, operated by Chris E. Nicholson, at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A cross-threaded fuel nozzle fitting caused a failure in the left engine, followed by an unexplained power loss in the right engine.

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