Accident Overview
An aircraft approaching LaGuardia Airport experienced a double engine failure while operating in poor weather conditions characterized by low ceiling and fog. The pilot subsequently lost control of the airplane, which crashed at Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, approximately five miles north of the airport. The accident resulted in one passenger sustaining serious injuries, while seven other occupants were killed.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft neared LaGuardia Airport, both engines failed. The pilot attempted to maintain control but was unable to prevent the crash. The airplane came to rest in a park area, five miles from its intended destination. Emergency services responded to the scene. The official investigation examined the circumstances leading to the engine failure.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be a double engine failure on approach due to fuel exhaustion. The investigation also identified contributing factors, including inadequate preflight preparation, mismanagement of fuel, fuel exhaustion, low ceiling, fog, and an erratic fuel quantity gauge.