On May 12, 1980, a Cessna 401 (registration N7931Q) operated by J & R Enterprises was involved in an aviation accident near Gainesville, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure on final approach due to inadequate preflight preparation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During final approach to Gainesville Airport, both engines failed simultaneously. The aircraft struck trees and crashed in high vegetation, seriously injuring both occupants.
Incident Overview
On final approach to Gainesville Airport, the aircraft experienced a simultaneous failure of both engines. The subsequent loss of altitude resulted in the airplane striking trees and coming to rest in dense vegetation. Both occupants sustained serious injuries.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a double engine failure on final approach due to inadequate preflight preparation. Contributing factors reported include:
Lack of familiarity with the aircraft
Mismanagement of fuel
Inattentiveness to fuel supply
Fuel starvation
Fuel selector positioned between tanks
High vegetation
Complete failure of both engines
Forced landing off airport on land
Auxiliary fuel tanks and left main empty
Right main fuel tank containing 10-15 gallons
Left engine fuel selector on left main tank
Right engine fuel selector positioned between left main and right auxiliary tank
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