Accident Summary
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a total loss of power from both engines. The pilot performed a forced landing, touching down with the landing gear retracted in an open field. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the aircraft had been refueled with Jet-A fuel instead of the required 100 low lead avgas. The lineman responsible for refueling inadvertently used the Jet-A fuel truck, which was identical to the Avgas truck except for a decal measuring approximately 4 feet by 16 feet that identified the fuel type. The lineman reported that his training consisted of about 30 minutes of reading the company maintenance manual on refueling procedures, followed by a brief period of on-the-job training. When he went to refuel the aircraft (registration N89PB) prior to the accident flight, he proceeded to the parking space where the Avgas truck was normally parked. However, on that occasion, the Jet-A fuel truck was located there.
Probable Cause
Occurrence #1: loss of engine power (total) - nonmechanical. Phase of operation: climb - to cruise. Findings: 1. (c) fluid, fuel grade - improper; 2. (c) maintenance, service of aircraft/equipment - improper - ground personnel; 3. (f) habit interference - ground personnel; 4. (f) inadequate surveillance, inadequate procedure - company/operator management. Occurrence #2: forced landing. Phase of operation: landing - flare/touchdown. Occurrence #3: in flight collision with terrain/water. Phase of operation: landing - flare/touchdown. Findings: 5. Terrain condition - rough/uneven; 6. Wheels up landing - performed - pilot in command.