Incident Overview
An aircraft en route from Columbus, Ohio, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, suffered technical problems with both engines during the flight. The crew attempted a ditching in the Ohio River. The airplane slid on the water and came to rest off Shippingport, Pennsylvania. All three occupants evacuated safely, but the aircraft was declared a write-off.
Events
During the climb, the tower controller asked the pilot if he wanted to return to the airport due to a slow climb rate. The pilot did not respond. Shortly thereafter, the crew encountered technical difficulties with both engines. Deciding to ditch, they brought the aircraft down on the Ohio River. The airplane slid along the water surface before coming to a stop near Shippingport.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be double engine failure in flight due to failure of the master and connecting rods. Contributing factors reported included improper in-flight decisions, material failure, failure of both engines, inadequate preflight preparation, the aircraft coming to rest in water, and a forced landing off airport on water.