On July 20, 1968, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N303MW) operated by Omni Investment was involved in an aviation accident near Delta, United States of America in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of the following factors: - Powerplant failure due to piston rings improperly installed, - Excessive temperature, - Inadequate maintenance and inspection, - Rough terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A pilot shut down a failed right engine and feathered the propeller during cruise, but the airplane stalled and crashed in a prairie near Delta. The pilot was uninjured; the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident Overview
While cruising at altitude, the pilot experienced engine problems and informed air traffic control. The pilot shut down the right engine and feathered its propeller. ATC cleared the flight to divert to the nearest airport, but seconds later the airplane stalled and crashed in a prairie located in Delta.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot was uninjured. The airplane sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the accident resulted from the following factors: powerplant failure due to improperly installed piston rings, excessive temperature, inadequate maintenance and inspection, and rough terrain.