No fatalities

Twin-Engine Airplane Crashes After Engine Malfunction Near Gulfport-Biloxi Airport (N1659T)

Gulfport-Biloxi, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On April 2, 1980, a Cessna 414 Chancellor (registration N1659T) operated by Retzer & Retzer was involved in an aviation accident near Gulfport-Biloxi, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine malfunction during initial climb and subsequent controlled collision with ground for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

A twin-engine airplane experienced an engine malfunction during initial climb, banked right, descended, and crashed near Gulfport-Biloxi Airport. All five occupants were injured, and the aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Overview

An accident involving a twin-engine airplane occurred after takeoff from Gulfport-Biloxi Airport. During the initial climb, the aircraft experienced an engine malfunction, causing it to bank right, descend, and crash near the airfield. The aircraft was destroyed, and all five occupants sustained injuries. The pilot and one passenger were seriously injured.

Sequence of Events

According to the official investigation, the flight departed from Gulfport-Biloxi Airport. While climbing after takeoff, the airplane's right engine lost power. The pilot did not feather the right propeller, and the aircraft subsequently entered a right bank, descended, and impacted terrain. The crash site was located near the airport.

Probable Cause

The probable cause of the accident was determined to be an engine malfunction during initial climb, leading to a controlled collision with the ground for undetermined reasons.

Contributing Factors

Several contributing factors were identified. The powerplant failure occurred for undetermined reasons. Additionally, the pilot failed to follow approved procedures and executed improper emergency procedures. The forced landing occurred off airport, with the right engine losing power and the right propeller not being feathered.