Post-maintenance test flight accident involving multiengine aircraft

3 fatalities • Fort Lauderdale-Executive, United States of America • Takeoff (climb)

A multiengine airplane crashed during a local test flight following avionics upgrades, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and several parked vehicles.

What happened

Following a four-month period of inactivity, a multiengine airplane was undergoing preparations for export. After recent avionics upgrades were completed, the pilot initiated a local test flight. Shortly after departing, the pilot radioed an emergency declaration, though the specific nature of the issue was not communicated.

During the flight, the aircraft struggled to maintain altitude and began a right-hand turn back toward the departure airport. The airplane subsequently entered a stall, which led to a 90-degree right roll and a rapid descent. The aircraft struck multiple parked vehicles on the ground and came to rest in an inverted position. A significant post-crash fire occurred, which completely destroyed the airframe and both engines.

Findings

An investigation of the wreckage showed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions occurring prior to the impact. While the left engine showed more significant rotational signatures than the right engine, investigators noted this could have been caused by the sequence of the crash. The left propeller assembly exhibited damage consistent with twisting and rotation, whereas the right propeller assembly remained attached to its gearbox, which had separated from the engine. Due to the absence of flight recorders and the severe damage caused by the fire and impact, no further details regarding the specific cause of the stall could be determined.

Probable cause

The specific cause of the accident could not be determined due to the lack of flight recorders and the extensive damage to the wreckage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-03-15 Piper PA-31 Cheyenne accident near Fort Lauderdale-Executive, United States of America?

A multiengine airplane crashed during a local test flight following avionics upgrades, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and several parked vehicles.

Were there any fatalities in the 2013-03-15 Piper PA-31 Cheyenne accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-03-15 involved a Piper PA-31 Cheyenne, registration N63CA, operated by Miami Aviation Specialist, at Fort Lauderdale-Executive, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The specific cause of the accident could not be determined due to the lack of flight recorders and the extensive damage to the wreckage.

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