On July 24, 1973, a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor (registration N234JC) operated by Alii Air Hawaii was involved in an aviation accident near Honolulu, United States of America during takeoff. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure during initial climb following a mismanagement of fuel on part of the pilot. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
After takeoff from Honolulu Airport, both engines failed, causing the aircraft to crash into the sea. Four passengers were rescued; five occupants, including the pilot, were killed. The aircraft sank and was lost.
Accident Details
After departing from Honolulu Airport, the aircraft experienced a double engine failure during the initial climb. It lost altitude and crashed into the sea a few dozen yards offshore. Four passengers were rescued from the water, while five other occupants, including the pilot, were killed. The aircraft subsequently sank and was lost.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a double engine failure during initial climb due to mismanagement of fuel by the pilot. Several contributing factors were identified:
- Fuel starvation
- Failure to maintain flying speed
- Inadequate preflight preparation
- Failure to use the pre-departure checklist
- Improperly loaded aircraft
- Seats improperly installed
- Takeoff with rear auxiliary tanks that were not serviced
- Fuel selector valve configuration different from other aircraft flown
- All cabin seats separated
These factors collectively led to the loss of engine power and subsequent crash.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 Jul 1973 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident near Honolulu, United States of America?
After takeoff from Honolulu Airport, both engines failed, causing the aircraft to crash into the sea. Four passengers were rescued; five occupants, including the pilot, were killed. The aircraft sank and was lost.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jul 1973 Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jul 1973 involved a Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, registration N234JC, operated by Alii Air Hawaii, at Honolulu, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Double engine failure during initial climb following a mismanagement of fuel on part of the pilot.