On December 7, 1968, a Cessna 411 (registration N7392U) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Houston-William P. Hobby, United States of America during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was probably caused by the combination of the following factors: - Failure of the left engine during initial climb, - Failure of the fuel system, loose parts/fitting, leak/leakage, - Lack of lubrication on specific part, - Powerplant scored, -… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
After takeoff, the left engine failed during climb. The pilot lost control, and the airplane crashed near the runway. The aircraft was destroyed, and the pilot was killed.
Accident Overview
After takeoff, while climbing, the left engine failed. The pilot lost control of the airplane, which subsequently crashed near the runway. The impact destroyed the aircraft, and the pilot was killed.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident, as determined by the investigation, was a combination of the following factors:
Failure of the left engine during initial climb
Failure of the fuel system, including loose parts/fitting and leakage
Lack of lubrication on a specific part, leading to a scored powerplant
Fuel starvation
Inadequate maintenance and inspection
Improper emergency procedures
The pilot failed to obtain or maintain flying speed
Complete engine failure
A leaking fitting in the engine-driven fuel pump
A dry bearing and scored armature in the auxiliary fuel pump on the left engine