No fatalities

2021-01-10: Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (N421DP) — 850 Atlantic Collision — Old Bethpage, United States of America

Old Bethpage, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On January 10, 2021, a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (registration N421DP) operated by 850 Atlantic Collision was involved in an aviation accident near Old Bethpage, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s inadequate preflight fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion and a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781190198Data APIEditorial standards

During climbout, both engines lost power. The aircraft crashed into a waste facility. Investigation found fuel exhaustion; both main tanks empty. The pilot reported 112 gallons on board but lacked refueling evidence.

Accident Details

During the initial climbout at approximately 1,000 ft above ground level, one engine stopped producing power. The pilot confirmed that all engine controls were full forward and the main fuel tanks were selected. Immediately thereafter, the remaining engine began to surge and then stopped producing power. The pilot established best glide speed and sought an area for a forced landing.

The airplane subsequently crashed into a solid waste disposal facility, about 2.3 nautical miles northwest of the departure airport.

Post-Accident Examination

First responders arrived immediately after the accident and found only a trace amount of fuel within the confines of the accident site or in the fuel tanks. The only postaccident fire was centered on a small, localized area near the right engine turbocharger. Both main fuel tanks were empty, and the auxiliary bladder tanks were ruptured by impact forces.

Examination of both engines revealed no evidence of a preaccident malfunction or anomaly. A surveillance video showed no evidence of smoke or mist trailing the airplane seconds prior to impact.

Fuel Status and Investigation

The pilot reported that he departed the airport with 112 gallons of fuel on board. However, the pilot did not provide evidence of the latest refueling when requested by investigators. The available evidence is consistent with a total loss of engine power to both engines due to fuel exhaustion.

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion and a forced landing.