Engine failure leads to fatal crash in Delta

1 fatality • Delta, United States of America • Flight

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure during cruise, resulting in a crash landing in a field near Delta that left one person dead.

What happened

During the cruise phase of flight, the pilot notified air traffic control that both engines on the aircraft had ceased functioning. Following this loss of power, the crew attempted to divert the plane toward the closest available airport.

As the aircraft lost necessary airspeed and altitude, it struck a field situated in Delta. The impact resulted in one fatality involving the pilot, while the three passengers on board sustained injuries during the crash landing.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the primary cause of the dual engine failure was engine icing. It was concluded that the pilot failed to properly utilize the aircraft's anti-icing or de-icing systems, or operated them incorrectly, which allowed ice to compromise the engines.

Probable cause

The engines failed due to ice accumulation because the pilot did not correctly operate the onboard de-icing equipment.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1964-03-05 Beechcraft E18 accident near Delta, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure during cruise, resulting in a crash landing in a field near Delta that left one person dead.

Were there any fatalities in the 1964-03-05 Beechcraft E18 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1964-03-05 involved a Beechcraft E18, registration N5645D, operated by Private United States of America, at Delta, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engines failed due to ice accumulation because the pilot did not correctly operate the onboard de-icing equipment.

Loading the flight search…