On December 5, 1976, a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (registration N7485S) operated by Continental Interiors was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Ana-John Wayne, United States of America during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure and stall on final approach due to mismanagement of fuel. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
On final approach to Santa Ana-John Wayne Airport, the left engine failed, the pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed in Costa Mesa. All five occupants were killed. Official findings cite engine failure and stall due to fuel mismanagement.
Accident Description
While on final approach to Santa Ana-John Wayne Airport at low altitude, the left engine of the airplane failed. The pilot subsequently lost control, causing the aircraft to spin and crash in Costa Mesa, approximately 2.5 miles short of runway 02L. The aircraft was destroyed, and all five occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the accident resulted from an engine failure and a stall on final approach, attributed to mismanagement of fuel. Several contributing factors were identified:
Fuel starvation
Misjudged distance and altitude
Failure to maintain flying speed
Poorly planned approach
Left propeller not feathered
Long low final approach
Operation below VMC (minimum control speed with one engine inoperative)
Probable Cause
According to the official findings, the probable cause of the accident was engine failure and stall on final approach due to mismanagement of fuel.