On December 29, 1980, a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (registration N9394A) operated by Southern City Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Muskegon, United States of America in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
While in normal cruise over Lake Michigan, the pilot reported engine problems. The airplane entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed into Lake Michigan off Muskegon. The wreckage and all five occupants were not recovered.
Incident Overview
During a normal cruise over Lake Michigan, the pilot reported engine problems. Shortly thereafter, control of the airplane was lost, leading to an uncontrolled descent. The aircraft crashed into Lake Michigan off the coast of Muskegon. Despite search efforts, the wreckage and all five occupants were not recovered.
Probable Cause and Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Specific findings reported include an uncontrolled descent, the aircraft coming to rest in water, and complete failure of one engine.