Fatal aircraft accident during ferry flight

1 fatality • New Port Richey, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine aircraft crashed into terrain during a ferry flight, resulting in the death of the pilot.

What happened

During a ferry flight conducted under visual flight rules (VFR), an aircraft was operating without the required ferry permit. While approaching the airport, observers noted the aircraft at an altitude between 150 and 500 feet. At this stage of the flight, the pilot had deployed the landing gear and initiated a left-hand turn.

During this maneuver, witnesses reported seeing flames near the exhaust of the left engine. Following this observation, the aircraft entered a sharp, descending left turn. The plane subsequently struck the ground after disappearing below the tree line. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and the fatal injury of the pilot.

Findings

  • The flight was being conducted without a valid ferry permit.
  • An engine fire was observed near the left engine exhaust prior to the impact.

Probable cause

An engine fire occurred during a low-altitude turn, leading to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-04-23 Cessna 401 accident near New Port Richey, United States of America?

A single-engine aircraft crashed into terrain during a ferry flight, resulting in the death of the pilot.

Were there any fatalities in the 1992-04-23 Cessna 401 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-04-23 involved a Cessna 401, registration N3271Q, operated by Howard F. Arends, at New Port Richey, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An engine fire occurred during a low-altitude turn, leading to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the terrain.

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