4 fatalities

Engine Failure and Stall on Approach to Trenton Airport (N98720)

Trenton, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 16, 1978, a Cessna 402 (registration N98720) operated by Bar Harbor Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Trenton, United States of America during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure on final approach for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

During a night approach to Trenton Airport, an engine failed. The crew initiated a go-around, but the airplane stalled and crashed short of the runway, destroying the aircraft and killing all four occupants.

Accident Details

The accident occurred during a night approach to Trenton Airport. While on final approach, one of the engines failed. The flight crew decided to execute a go-around. As the go-around was initiated, the airplane stalled and crashed in flames. The crash site was located a few miles short of the runway. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the impact and ensuing fire.

Injuries and Fatalities

The aircraft carried four occupants. All four were killed in the accident.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

The investigation determined that the probable cause was a powerplant failure on final approach for reasons that could not be determined. The following contributing factors were reported: improper IFR operation, failure to maintain flying speed, failure to retract the landing gear, low ceiling, rain, fog, and that the pilot in command (PIC) was not determined.