Engine failure and runway excursion during diversion

No fatalities • Bullhead City, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced total engine failure while diverting due to low fuel, leading to a runway excursion and substantial damage to the fuselage.

What happened

During an enroute flight, the pilot received a notification indicating low fuel levels. In response to this alert, the pilot began preparations to divert to a nearby airfield. Shortly after this notification, the left engine ceased operation, and within two minutes, the right engine also failed.

At the time of the incident, the pilot requested vectors from air traffic control to assist with the diversion. The environmental conditions were characterized by clear skies, but the lack of moonlight, horizon, or visible terrain features created significant navigational challenges. As the aircraft approached the destination at an altitude of roughly 2,000 feet, the runway lighting system unexpectedly deactivated. Unable to restore the runway lights, the pilot relied on lights from the terminal and ramp areas to guide the aircraft toward the landing strip.

Upon landing, the aircraft veered off the runway surface. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.

Findings

According to the pilot's report, the primary reason for the emergency was that the aircraft ran out of fuel. The pilot noted that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures present prior to the incident that would have prevented the aircraft from operating normally.

Probable cause

The aircraft exhausted its fuel supply during an attempted diversion, leading to total engine failure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2023-03-06 Rockwell Grand Commander 690 accident near Bullhead City, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced total engine failure while diverting due to low fuel, leading to a runway excursion and substantial damage to the fuselage.

Were there any fatalities in the 2023-03-06 Rockwell Grand Commander 690 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2023-03-06 involved a Rockwell Grand Commander 690, registration N4PZ, operated by Phillip R. Zeeck, at Bullhead City, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft exhausted its fuel supply during an attempted diversion, leading to total engine failure.

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