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Aircraft ditched offshore after simultaneous engine failure (N1981W)

Sint Maarten, Dutch AntillesLanding (descent or approach)

On October 2, 1971, a Douglas DC-3 (registration N1981W) operated by Island Gem Enterprises was involved in an aviation accident near Sint Maarten, Dutch Antilles during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure caused by a fuel starvation. The cause of the fuel starvation was undetermined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A three-occupant aircraft ditched 32 km offshore from Sint Maarten Island after both engines failed during descent. All occupants were rescued by coast guards before the aircraft sank and was lost.

Incident Overview During a descent toward Sint Maarten Island, the pilot declared an emergency after both engines failed at the same time. The captain decided to ditch the aircraft approximately 32 km offshore. All three occupants were quickly rescued by coast guards while the airplane sank and was lost. ## Official Findings The official investigation identified double engine failure caused by fuel starvation as the probable cause. The cause of the fuel starvation was undetermined. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or exact location beyond the offshore ditching near Sint Maarten Island.

Engine failureFuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Oct 1971 Douglas DC-3 accident near Sint Maarten, Dutch Antilles?

A three-occupant aircraft ditched 32 km offshore from Sint Maarten Island after both engines failed during descent. All occupants were rescued by coast guards before the aircraft sank and was lost.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Oct 1971 Douglas DC-3 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Oct 1971 involved a Douglas DC-3, registration N1981W, operated by Island Gem Enterprises, at Sint Maarten, Dutch Antilles.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Double engine failure caused by a fuel starvation. The cause of the fuel starvation was undetermined.

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