On March 19, 1966, a Learjet 23 (registration N316M) operated by Mutual Benefit Health and Accident Association was involved in an aviation accident near Chicago-Merrill C. Meigs, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Both engines failed due to icing. The crew failed to use the engine/nacelle deicing systems and improperly followed the emergency procedures. The engine heaters were activated after the engine failure, and restart was attempted with both engine heaters on. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Both engines failed from icing during approach to Chicago-Merrill C. Meigs Airport. The aircraft stalled and crashed into Lake Michigan short of the runway; both pilots were rescued, but the aircraft sank and was lost.
Accident Summary
The aircraft was on a positioning flight to Chicago-Merrill C. Meigs Airport. During the approach, both engines failed simultaneously. The airplane stalled and subsequently crashed into Lake Michigan, a few miles short of the runway. Both pilots were rescued from the water, while the aircraft sank and was lost.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that both engines failed due to icing. The crew failed to use the engine/nacelle deicing systems and improperly followed the emergency procedures. The engine heaters were activated after the engine failure occurred, and an attempt to restart the engines was made with both engine heaters on.