On March 18, 1979, a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (registration N35FC) operated by May Petroleum was involved in an aviation accident near Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field, United States of America during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure or malfunction and subsequent uncontrolled descent for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Shortly after takeoff from Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, the pilot reported an engine malfunction. The aircraft lost control and crashed in flames, killing all four occupants.
Circumstances
Minutes after departing Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field Airport, the pilot reported an engine malfunction. Air traffic control cleared the flight to return for an emergency landing. Shortly thereafter, the airplane went out of control and impacted the ground in flames. The aircraft was destroyed.
All four occupants were killed in the crash.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be an engine failure or malfunction and subsequent uncontrolled descent for unknown reasons.
Contributing Factors
Several contributing factors were identified:
Attempted operation with known deficiencies in equipment