Engine failure and collision during takeoff

No fatalities • Put-in-Bay, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a double engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a collision with power lines and a subsequent crash.

What happened

During the initial climb phase following takeoff, the aircraft suffered a loss of power in two of its three engines. In an attempt to manage the emergency, the pilot initiated a return to the departure airfield. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck power cables and crashed into a nearby field.

The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were three serious injuries recorded among the occupants, with no fatalities reported.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified that the primary cause was a dual engine failure triggered by improper fuel management. Specifically, the investigation determined that the fuel selector was positioned between tanks, leading to fuel starvation.

Additional environmental factors contributed to the difficulty of the flight, including unfavorable wind conditions characterized by gusts reaching 40 knots. The sequence of events concluded with the aircraft colliding with utility poles and wires.

Probable cause

The engines failed due to fuel starvation caused by the fuel selector being left in an intermediate position between tanks.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-07-01 Ford 4 accident near Put-in-Bay, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a double engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a collision with power lines and a subsequent crash.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-07-01 Ford 4 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-07-01 involved a Ford 4, registration N7584, operated by Island Airlines (Ohio), at Put-in-Bay, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engines failed due to fuel starvation caused by the fuel selector being left in an intermediate position between tanks.

Investigation report by the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A). Original record: https://www.baaa-acro.com/crash/crash-ford-4-put-bay. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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