Engine failure leads to crash near Gardner Municipal Airport

No fatalities • Gardner-New Century Aircenter, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight traveling from Iola to Kansas City experienced dual engine failure during its approach, resulting in a forced landing west of the airfield.

What happened

While operating a flight from Iola toward Kansas City, the crew encountered mechanical issues involving the engines. In response to these complications, air traffic control authorized a diversion to Gardner Municipal Airport. During the approach phase of the flight, both engines ceased functioning, leaving the crew to manage an emergency descent. The aircraft type crashed approximately one mile west of the airport perimeter.

Despite the impact, all three occupants were able to exit the wreckage. There were no fatalities reported, as everyone on board sustained only minor injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified that a contaminated fuel truck was the primary source of the issue. The presence of water within the fuel supply led to the total loss of power in both engines. Additional contributing factors noted during the investigation included inadequate ground servicing procedures and the subsequent complete failure of the propulsion system during the approach.

Probable cause

The dual engine failure was caused by water contamination in the fuel provided during ground servicing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-04-09 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident near Gardner-New Century Aircenter, United States of America?

A flight traveling from Iola to Kansas City experienced dual engine failure during its approach, resulting in a forced landing west of the airfield.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-04-09 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1979-04-09 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise, registration N251M, operated by International Business Aircraft, at Gardner-New Century Aircenter, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The dual engine failure was caused by water contamination in the fuel provided during ground servicing.

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