Engine failure and ditching near Charlotte Amalie-Harry S. Truman Airport

No fatalities • Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a simultaneous dual engine failure during descent, resulting in an emergency water ditching off the coast of St. Thomas.

What happened

During an approach to Charlotte Amalie-Harry S. Truman Airport, an aircraft was performing its descent under favorable weather conditions. During this phase of flight, the pilot notified Air Traffic Control that both engines had suffered a simultaneous loss of power.

Recognizing that the remaining glide capability was insufficient to reach the runway, the pilot executed an emergency ditching a short distance from the shore. The aircraft impacted the surface of the ocean and slid several meters across the water before coming to a complete stop.

Following the impact, all seven occupants successfully exited the cabin. Emergency responders arrived promptly to rescue the passengers and crew. While the individuals were saved, the aircraft subsequently sank into the sea. The wreckage of the plane has not been retrieved.

Findings

Investigations into the incident determined that the primary factor was a powerplant failure affecting both engines at the same time. The specific underlying reason for this mechanical failure remains undetermined.

Probable cause

The simultaneous failure of both engines caused the loss of power during descent.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1975-12-12 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands?

An aircraft experienced a simultaneous dual engine failure during descent, resulting in an emergency water ditching off the coast of St. Thomas.

Were there any fatalities in the 1975-12-12 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1975-12-12 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration N118DW, operated by Dorado Wings, at Charlotte Amalie-Cyril E. King (ex Harry S. Truman), US Virgin Islands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The simultaneous failure of both engines caused the loss of power during descent.

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