What happened
During the approach phase toward Henderson-Sky Harbor Airport, a twin engine airplane experienced significant mechanical issues involving its fuel supply. While performing the final approach, the aircraft lost sufficient airspeed and entered a stall. The plane subsequently crashed into a rocky terrain situated approximately one mile before reaching the runway. Upon impact, the aircraft caught fire. There was only one person on board, the pilot, who was killed in the accident.
Findings
Investigations into the crash identified that the pilot failed to maintain the necessary flying speed while circling within the traffic pattern, which led to the aerodynamic stall. Several contributing factors were noted during the inquiry:
- The pilot chose to continue the flight despite being aware of existing equipment deficiencies.
- A failure occurred within the fuel system related to a material malfunction.
- Specifically, an o-ring seal on the wingtip tank sniffer valve had failed prior to the commencement of the flight.
- The aircraft was operating with low fuel levels and had diverted to a runway that lacked lighting.
- Air Traffic Control did not notify the pilot regarding unsafe conditions present at the airport.
- The incident involved an attempt at a precautionary landing on the airport premises.