On August 9, 1981, a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I (registration N19RJ) operated by R. J. Mellon was involved in an aviation accident near Long Beach, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during traffic pattern and subsequent collision with wires/poles due to mismanagement of fuel. Contributing factors: Fuel starvation, Forced landing off airport on land, Found main fuel tanks empty, Auxiliary tanks nearly full. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During approach to Long Beach, both engines failed. The pilot attempted an emergency landing, striking power cables and a fence before stopping. Four occupants sustained minor injuries; the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Incident Overview
During an approach to Long Beach, the aircraft experienced a dual engine failure. The pilot initiated an emergency landing procedure. During the forced landing, the airplane collided with power cables and a fence before coming to a stop.
Occupant Status
All four occupants evacuated the aircraft with minor injuries.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official probable cause of the accident was engine failure during the traffic pattern and subsequent collision with wires and poles due to mismanagement of fuel. Contributing factors reported include: