Dual Engine Failure Leads to Forced Landing of Cessna T337D

Casualties unknown • Leatherhead Common, near A425/M25, Surrey, GB

A Cessna T337D experienced total engine failure during a ferry flight near Leatherhead Common, resulting in a forced landing and significant aircraft damage.

What happened

On 3 October 1998, a Cessna T337D, registration G-BEDL, was performing a ferry flight from Bournemouth International Airport to Biggin Hill. The flight was being conducted under 'A Conditions' following recent maintenance and repairs. During the flight, approximately 35 miles from the destination, the front engine began running roughly before failing. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the failure persisted. Shortly after, the rear engine also failed.

As the aircraft approached a field near the M25 motorway, the crew extended the landing gear and flaps to prepare for a forced landing. During the final stages of the approach, the aircraft struck a tree, which caused a large portion of the left wing to separate. The impact resulted in one major injury and one minor injury to the crew, while the two passengers sustained minor injuries.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the cause of the dual engine failure and the regulatory status of the flight. It was established that the aircraft was being operated in violation of its 'A Conditions' certificate, which prohibited the carriage of passengers. Furthermore, the two pilots were unable to identify who was acting as the commander, and neither was current or experienced on this specific type.

Regarding the mechanical failure, investigators examined the fuel systems. While the left-hand system could not be fully inspected due to impact damage, the right-hand system revealed that the fuel selector valves had been set to the OFF position. Although the auxiliary tank in the right wing was full, there was no usable fuel in the corresponding main tank. The fuel feed line to the rear engine was found to be dry.

Findings

  • The primary cause of the dual engine failure was the incorrect setting of the fuel selector valves to the OFF position.
  • The flight was being conducted in breach of the 'A Conditions' certificate by carrying two passengers.
  • There was a lack of clarity regarding pilot roles, as neither pilot identified themselves as the commander.
  • The pilots were not current on the aircraft type and were unaware of the specific flight restrictions.

Probable cause

The dual engine failure was caused by the fuel selector valves being left in the OFF position, which prevented fuel from reaching the engines. This was compounded by the unauthorized carriage of passengers and a lack of crew coordination regarding command and type currency.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-10-03 CESSNA T337D accident near Leatherhead Common, near A425/M25, Surrey, GB?

A Cessna T337D experienced total engine failure during a ferry flight near Leatherhead Common, resulting in a forced landing and significant aircraft damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-10-03 involved a CESSNA T337D, registration G-BEDL, at Leatherhead Common, near A425/M25, Surrey, GB.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The dual engine failure was caused by the fuel selector valves being left in the OFF position, which prevented fuel from reaching the engines. This was compounded by the unauthorized carriage of passengers and a lack of crew coordination regarding command and type currency.

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