What happened
While performing a flight from Columbus toward Fort Lauderdale, the crew experienced significant mechanical issues affecting both engines. As the aircraft struggled with a diminished rate of climb, air traffic control contacted the pilot to suggest returning to the departure airport; however, the controllers received no response from the cockpit.
In an attempt to manage the emergency, the crew executed a ditching maneuver into the Ohio River. The aircraft type impacted the water surface and slid across it before coming to a stop near Shippingport. Despite the impact, all three occupants were successfully evacuated from the wreckage without injury. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss.
Findings
Investigations determined that the primary reason for the incident was a simultaneous failure of both engines caused by the breakage of the master and connecting rods. Several contributing elements were identified in the official report, including:
- Mechanical failure of engine components
- Inadequate preflight preparation
- Errors regarding in-flight decision making
- The necessity of an emergency water landing