No fatalities

Engine Failure Leads to Forced Water Landing near George Town (N35803)

George Town, Cayman IslandsLanding (descent or approach)

On May 17, 1981, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration N35803) operated by Phillip H. Taylor was involved in an aviation accident near George Town, Cayman Islands during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure caused by inadequate preflight preparation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Both engines failed on approach to George Town Airport after a flight from Lakeland, FL. The crew executed a forced landing on water 7 miles from destination; both occupants rescued, aircraft lost.

Accident Overview

During approach to George Town Airport, after an uneventful flight originating from Lakeland, Florida, both engines ceased operation. The flight crew performed a forced landing off-airport onto water, approximately 7 nautical miles from the intended destination. Both individuals on board were successfully rescued, while the aircraft was not recovered.

Sequence of Events

The flight from Lakeland to George Town was reported as uneventful until the approach phase. As the aircraft neared its destination, both engines failed. The crew initiated a forced landing, touching down on water away from the airport. Emergency services responded, and the two occupants were rescued. The aircraft subsequently sank and was lost.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident was engine failure caused by inadequate preflight preparation. Contributing factors identified include improper in-flight decisions, miscalculated fuel consumption, fuel exhaustion, the aircraft coming to rest in water, and complete failure of both engines.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 May 1981 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near George Town, Cayman Islands?

Both engines failed on approach to George Town Airport after a flight from Lakeland, FL. The crew executed a forced landing on water 7 miles from destination; both occupants rescued, aircraft lost.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 May 1981 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 May 1981 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration N35803, operated by Phillip H. Taylor, at George Town, Cayman Islands.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure caused by inadequate preflight preparation.