On January 12, 1968, a Beechcraft H18 (registration N909T) operated by Texize Chemicals was involved in an aviation accident near Norwich, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper operation of powerplant controls. The crew failed to use the anti-icing/deicing equipment while approaching the airport in icing conditions. An engine failed after encountering conditions conducive to carburetor/induction system icing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
On final approach, an engine failed. Crew increased power on the remaining engine, leading to a stall and crash in an open field. Both occupants were rescued; the aircraft was destroyed by post-crash fire. Official cause: improper powerplant controls and icing.
Accident Summary
The accident occurred during final approach to Norwich-Lieutenant Eaton Airport. One of the engines failed, prompting the crew to increase power on the remaining engine. The airplane subsequently stalled and crashed in an open field. Both occupants were quickly rescued, but the aircraft was destroyed by a post-crash fire.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause was improper operation of powerplant controls. The crew failed to use the anti-icing/deicing equipment while approaching the airport in icing conditions. An engine failed after encountering conditions conducive to carburetor/induction system icing. During the approach, the captain attempted to restart the right engine while the copilot had no experience on the aircraft. Control was lost.