No fatalities

Double Engine Failure Leads to Crash Landing Near Gardner Municipal Airport (N251M)

Gardner-New Century Aircenter, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 9, 1979, a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise (registration N251M) operated by International Business Aircraft was involved in an aviation accident near Gardner-New Century Aircenter, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground due to double engine failure. Contributing factors: poor ground servicing, water in fuel, complete failure of both engines, forced landing off airport on land, fuel truck contaminated with water. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A flight en route from Iola to Kansas City experienced engine problems, was cleared to divert, but both engines failed on approach. The aircraft crash landed one mile west of Gardner Municipal Airport; all three occupants sustained minor injuries.

Incident Overview

A flight en route from Iola to Kansas City encountered engine problems and was cleared to divert to Gardner Municipal Airport. During the approach, both engines failed, forcing the crew to attempt an emergency landing. The aircraft crash landed approximately one mile west of the airfield. All three occupants evacuated with minor injuries.

Flight Details

The crew reported engine issues while en route and received clearance to divert. On final approach, both engines ceased operation. The crew executed a forced landing off-airport, resulting in the aircraft coming to rest on land west of the runway.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause was a controlled collision with ground due to double engine failure. Contributing factors included poor ground servicing, water contamination in the fuel, complete failure of both engines, forced landing off airport on land, and a fuel truck that had been contaminated with water.