On March 2, 1981, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N80162) operated by T. T. Hughes was involved in an aviation accident near Claxton-Evans County (Clayton), United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure on final approach and subsequent collision with trees and crash due to inadequate preflight preparation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a night approach to Claxton-Evans County Airport, both engines lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The aircraft struck trees during an emergency landing, seriously injuring both occupants.
Incident Overview
On a night approach to Claxton-Evans County (Clayton) Airport, both engines of an aircraft flamed out as a result of fuel exhaustion. The airplane subsequently lost altitude. While the pilot attempted to conduct an emergency landing, the aircraft struck trees and crashed.
Injuries and Damage
Both occupants sustained serious injuries in the crash. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact with trees and terrain.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official probable cause of the accident was a double engine failure on final approach and a subsequent collision with trees and crash due to inadequate preflight preparation. The following contributing factors were reported: mismanagement of fuel, fuel exhaustion, failure of both engines, and forced landing off airport on land.