Incident Overview
Shortly after departing from Teterboro Airport, the aircraft experienced an engine failure during the initial climb phase. The pilot subsequently lost control, and the airplane crashed onto the apron with a significant explosion. The impact and ensuing post-crash fire destroyed the Cessna 411 and also consumed five additional aircraft parked in the area. A sixth aircraft sustained serious damage.
Aircraft Involved
The accident aircraft was a Cessna 411, which was destroyed by fire. Also destroyed were a Piper PA-28 (registered N6416W), two Beechcraft 33 aircraft (N8822H and N5715V), a Beechcraft 35 (N9575Q), and a fifth aircraft bearing registration N7167N. A sixth airplane, registered N8390N, was seriously damaged but not destroyed.
Injuries
The pilot of the Cessna 411 was seriously injured as a result of the crash.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors included the pilot's failure to obtain and maintain flying speed, improper emergency procedures, and improper single-engine procedures.