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Double Engine Failure on Final Approach Leads to Crash near Gainesville Airport (N7931Q)

Gainesville, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

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).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

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
Engine failureFuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 May 1980 Cessna 401 accident near Gainesville, United States of America?

During final approach to Gainesville Airport, both engines failed simultaneously. The aircraft struck trees and crashed in high vegetation, seriously injuring both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 May 1980 Cessna 401 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 May 1980 involved a Cessna 401, registration N7931Q, operated by J & R Enterprises, at Gainesville, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Double engine failure on final approach due to inadequate preflight preparation.

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