1 fatality

2013-08-01: Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (4X-AKV) — Private Isreali — Eilat (אילת), Israel

Eilat (אילת), IsraelLanding (descent or approach)

On August 1, 2013, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration 4X-AKV) operated by Private Isreali was involved in an aviation accident near Eilat (אילת), Israel during landing or approach. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781194076Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered 4X-AKV
Aircraft registered 4X-AKV. Photo: Oyoyoy / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

An airplane crashed and inverted at Eilat Airport during a go-around after the pilot mistakenly closed the right engine's fuel valve, causing asymmetric thrust. The pilot was killed; both passengers were seriously injured.

Background

The flight originated at Herzliya and was destined for Eilat. The approach was conducted under excellent weather conditions.

Accident Sequence

After an uneventful flight, the pilot began the approach. At a height of about 10 feet, the pilot initiated a go-around due to a misunderstanding of an air traffic control transmission intended for another aircraft. While executing the go-around, the pilot attempted to switch fuel tanks but instead closed the fuel valve connected to the right engine. This action caused the right engine to stop.

Loss of Control and Crash

The resulting asymmetric thrust from the operating left engine caused the airplane to veer to the right. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed into a drainage ditch, coming to rest inverted.

Occupant Status

The pilot was killed in the accident. Both passengers sustained serious injuries.