Engine failure and loss of control involving single-engine aircraft

No fatalities • North Fort Myers, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A pilot experienced a dual engine power loss during an emergency return to the airport, resulting in a residential impact.

What happened

During an attempt to return to the airport following a loss of power in the left engine, the pilot experienced a subsequent loss of power in the right engine. While attempting a left turn to reach the airfield, the pilot did not follow established emergency shutdown procedures. This resulted in a significant left yaw, causing the aircraft type to drop on its left wing in a manner consistent with a stall.

After regaining some level of control, the pilot directed the aircraft toward a street. The aircraft struck the roof of a residence while in a right bank and subsequently cartwheeled across the roadway. No fatalities or injuries were reported in the source material.

Findings

Investigation of the left engine revealed severe damage caused by detonation. Additionally, the turbocharger wastegate door was missing its anti-vibration spring, and the pin connecting the door to the actuator had failed. Evidence suggested that this pin failure had occurred prior to the accident flight, as soot inside the left wastegate indicated the door had remained in a fully closed position for an extended period.

Regarding the right engine, no evidence of malfunction or failure was identified. The damage observed on the right propeller was consistent with the engine being under power at the moment of ground impact.

Probable cause

The engine failure was caused by severe detonation damage and a pre-existing mechanical failure of the turbocharger wastegate actuator pin.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-06-27 Cessna 411 accident near North Fort Myers, United States of America?

A pilot experienced a dual engine power loss during an emergency return to the airport, resulting in a residential impact.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-06-27 Cessna 411 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-06-27 involved a Cessna 411, registration N4940T, operated by Conrad Ramaker, at North Fort Myers, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was caused by severe detonation damage and a pre-existing mechanical failure of the turbocharger wastegate actuator pin.

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