No fatalities

Power Loss on Both Left Engines During Approach Leads to Forced Landing (N81962)

Scottsdale, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 5, 1984, a De Havilland DH.114 Heron (registration N81962) operated by Scenic Air Tours was involved in an aviation accident near Scottsdale, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

During a base-to-final turn, a pilot lost power on both left engines, reduced power on the right, and performed a forced landing. The aircraft struck ditches and trees; left engines resumed full power at touchdown. The pilot was uninjured.

Incident Overview

While turning from left base to final for landing, the pilot of a multi-engine aircraft experienced a power loss on both left engines for undetermined reasons. Unable to maintain directional control, the pilot elected to reduce power on the right engines.

Forced Landing and Ground Contact

The aircraft was subsequently forced to land. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with three ditches and small trees. As the aircraft touched down, both left engines resumed full power.

Pilot and Outcome

The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, was uninjured.

Official Findings

The official probable cause is listed as "Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons." Three occurrences were identified: loss of engine power (reason undetermined), forced landing, and on-ground encounters with terrain (ditches) and objects (trees).