Engine failures lead to crash at Windsor Locks-Bradley Airport

No fatalities • Windsor Locks-Bradley, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A dual engine failure during the final approach to Windsor Locks-Bradley Airport resulted in an aircraft crash and minor injuries.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight into Windsor Locks-Bradley Airport, the aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of power from both engines. The left engine lost power first, followed by a failure of the right engine. In an attempt to manage the emergency, the crew initiated an unplanned landing procedure. During this maneuver, the aircraft type impacted several trees before catching fire and being destroyed upon impact.

There were two people on board during the incident. Both occupants sustained slight injuries, and no fatalities were reported following the crash.

Findings

Investigations into the dual engine failure identified specific mechanical malfunctions within both powerplants. The left engine's failure was attributed to a lack of lubrication for a specific component in the compressor assembly, specifically affecting the bearing and rotor shaft, which led to overheating. Simultaneously, the right engine suffered a failure in its turbine assembly due to a fatigue fracture on a turbine blade or wheel. The primary driver of the accident was mechanical failure of both engines caused by internal component malfunctions.

Probable cause

The simultaneous failure of both engines was caused by lubrication issues in the left engine's compressor assembly and a fatigue fracture in the right engine's turbine assembly.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-06-19 Beechcraft D18 accident near Windsor Locks-Bradley, United States of America?

A dual engine failure during the final approach to Windsor Locks-Bradley Airport resulted in an aircraft crash and minor injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-06-19 Beechcraft D18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-06-19 involved a Beechcraft D18, registration N10VT, operated by Great Western Airlines, at Windsor Locks-Bradley, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The simultaneous failure of both engines was caused by lubrication issues in the left engine's compressor assembly and a fatigue fracture in the right engine's turbine assembly.

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