On January 21, 1981, a Cessna 340 (registration N26711) operated by Colonial Leasing Company was involved in an aviation accident near Aurora-Sugar Grove, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground on final approach due to improper operation of powerplant and powerplant controls. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a post-maintenance test flight in poor weather with freezing fog, both engines lost power from induction icing. The crew attempted an emergency landing but crashed, seriously injuring all three occupants.
Accident Details
The aircraft, crewed by one engineer and two pilots, departed Aurora-Sugar Grove for a local post-maintenance test flight. While approaching the airport in poor weather conditions with limited visibility due to freezing fog, both engines lost power as the induction systems were iced. The crew attempted an emergency landing when the airplane crashed. All three occupants were seriously injured.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a controlled collision with ground on final approach due to improper operation of powerplant and powerplant controls. The following contributing factors were reported: improper operation of the anti-icing/deicing equipment or failure to use it; ice induction; airframe ice; icing conditions including sleet and freezing rain; conditions conducive to carburetor/induction system icing; forced landing on airport; airframe buffet; adverse/unfavorable weather; visibility one mile or less; fog; test flight check of radios and pressurization; and the aircraft being 233 lbs over maximum weight at takeoff (within limits at the time of the accident).
What happened in the 21 Jan 1981 Cessna 340 accident near Aurora-Sugar Grove, United States of America?
During a post-maintenance test flight in poor weather with freezing fog, both engines lost power from induction icing. The crew attempted an emergency landing but crashed, seriously injuring all three occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Jan 1981 Cessna 340 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jan 1981 involved a Cessna 340, registration N26711, operated by Colonial Leasing Company, at Aurora-Sugar Grove, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Controlled collision with ground on final approach due to improper operation of powerplant and powerplant controls. The following contributing factors were reported: - Improper operation of the anti-icing/deicing equipment or failed to use it, - Ice induction, - Airframe ice, - Icing conditions including sleet and…
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