Engine failure and subsequent crash of aircraft near Indianapolis

No fatalities • London-Corbin-Magee Field, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced dual engine power loss during cruise flight, resulting in an impact in a wooded area.

What happened

While cruising at 18,000 feet, the aircraft experienced a loss of power in the left engine approximately 30 minutes after completing refueling operations. The pilot notified Indianapolis ARTCC of the emergency and requested a descent to a lower altitude. Air traffic control cleared the flight to 10,000 feet MSL.

Following the initial failure, the pilot attempted to restart the left engine, but the effort was unsuccessful. Shortly after this attempt, the right engine also lost power. The air traffic controller provided the pilot with weather updates and radar vectors to the closest airport, which was located approximately nine miles from the aircraft's position at the time. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a wooded area.

Findings

An investigation of the wreckage was conducted by the FAA. The engines and associated accessories were transported to Pratt & Whitney for detailed inspection. While the examination of the engine components did not reveal any pre-existing mechanical defects, laboratory analysis of fuel samples recovered from the site identified the presence of contaminants in the fuel.

Probable cause

The presence of contaminants in the aircraft fuel led to the failure of both engines during cruise flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-01-18 Cessna 425 Conquest accident near London-Corbin-Magee Field, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced dual engine power loss during cruise flight, resulting in an impact in a wooded area.

Were there any fatalities in the 1994-01-18 Cessna 425 Conquest accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-01-18 involved a Cessna 425 Conquest, registration N303MC, operated by Conquest Charter Corporation, at London-Corbin-Magee Field, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The presence of contaminants in the aircraft fuel led to the failure of both engines during cruise flight.

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