Engine failure and subsequent crash during takeoff climb

No fatalities • Jackson-Reynolds Field, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a right engine malfunction and subsequent terrain impact shortly after liftoff, resulting in a post-crash fire.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following a touch-and-go maneuver, the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 90 knots when the co-pilot, operating from the left seat, reported issues regarding the right engine. At the time of the malfunction, the pilot was focused on observing several trucks positioned near the right side of the runway. Due to this external distraction, the pilot was not actively monitoring the flight instruments.

In an effort to avoid a potential collision with the vehicles, which the pilot feared might swerve into the path of the aircraft, the decision was made not to immediately land. The pilot took control of the aircraft, but it subsequently settled near the runway and caught fire upon impact.

Findings

Post-accident inspections of the right engine identified that nearly all of the 12 spark plugs were covered in soot. Notably, these plugs had been installed in a new engine, which had successfully reached takeoff RPM prior to the incident. Official investigations concluded that the event involved both a loss of engine power and an in-flight collision with the terrain. The investigation also noted that the pilot in command was inattentive to flight instruments due to external visual distractions.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from a combination of engine power loss and pilot inattention to flight instruments during the initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1982-03-23 Cessna 414 Chancellor accident near Jackson-Reynolds Field, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a right engine malfunction and subsequent terrain impact shortly after liftoff, resulting in a post-crash fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 1982-03-23 Cessna 414 Chancellor accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1982-03-23 involved a Cessna 414 Chancellor, registration N37174, operated by Gimbel Aviation, at Jackson-Reynolds Field, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident resulted from a combination of engine power loss and pilot inattention to flight instruments during the initial climb.

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