2 fatalities

Airplane Crash in Roosevelt: Propeller Issue Leads to Loss of Control (N2217Q)

Roosevelt, United States of AmericaFlight

On November 21, 1973, a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (registration N2217Q) operated by Landis Sales was involved in an aviation accident near Roosevelt, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure caused by a propeller and accessories (governors) technical issue. The following factors were reported: - Governors disconnected, - Failed to maintain flying speed, - Improper operation of flight controls, - Physical impairment, - Suspected… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During cruise, the pilot encountered left propeller problems, lost control, and the aircraft dove into the ground, destroying it and killing both occupants. Investigation cited powerplant failure due to propeller governor issues and other factors.

Accident Summary

While at cruising altitude, the pilot experienced difficulties with the left propeller. This led to a loss of control, causing the airplane to enter a dive and subsequently crash in Roosevelt. The aircraft was destroyed on impact, and both individuals on board were killed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a powerplant failure resulting from a technical issue involving the propeller and its associated accessories, specifically the governors. The following factors were reported: governors disconnected; failure to maintain flying speed; improper operation of flight controls; physical impairment; suspected mechanical discrepancy; loose left governor lower spring seat/thrust bearing of the pilot valve plunger; and the possibility of a hypoglycemic reaction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Nov 1973 Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II accident near Roosevelt, United States of America?

During cruise, the pilot encountered left propeller problems, lost control, and the aircraft dove into the ground, destroying it and killing both occupants. Investigation cited powerplant failure due to propeller governor issues and other factors.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 Nov 1973 Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Nov 1973 involved a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II, registration N2217Q, operated by Landis Sales, at Roosevelt, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Powerplant failure caused by a propeller and accessories (governors) technical issue. The following factors were reported: - Governors disconnected, - Failed to maintain flying speed, - Improper operation of flight controls, - Physical impairment, - Suspected mechanical discrepancy, - Left governors lower spring…