Accident Sequence
The aircraft lost engine power and crashed in a wooded area. Weather conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC). The pilot had made a missed approach after attempting to land on the runway at Oneonta at 1838 hours. Subsequently, the pilot radioed that he was unable to 'pick up' the Kring beacon. Boston Center vectored the flight to the area of the Kring beacon. The pilot then proceeded to question his position. When Boston terminated radar service, the pilot's answer was unintelligible. No further communications were received from the flight. The wreckage was found about half a mile from the airport.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the left fuel tank selector was found on the left outboard tank. The aircraft is restricted to level flight for use of fuel from the outboard tanks. All five occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined as follows:
Occurrence #1: Loss of engine power (total) - nonmechanical
- Phase of operation: Maneuvering
- Findings:
1. Fluid, fuel - starvation 2. Procedures/directives - not followed - pilot in command 3. Diverted attention - pilot in command 4. Fuel tank selector position - improper - pilot in command 5. IFR procedure - not followed - pilot in command 6. Mental performance overload - pilot in command 7. Anxiety/apprehension - pilot in command
Occurrence #2: In flight collision with terrain/water
- Phase of operation: Maneuvering
- Findings:
8. IFR procedure - not corrected - pilot in command 9. Light condition - dark night 10. Terrain condition - high terrain 11. Object - tree(s)