On September 15, 1971, a Rockwell Aero Commander 560 (registration N2779B) operated by C&C Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers (Allen C. Thompson), United States of America during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure on final approach caused by the following factors: Mismanagement of fuel, Miscalculated fuel consumption, Fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a night approach to Jackson-Allen C. Thompson Airport in good weather, both engines failed due to fuel mismanagement. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed, killing five and seriously injuring one.
Accident Overview
During a night approach to Jackson-Allen C. Thompson Airport, the aircraft was operating under good weather conditions. Both engines lost power and failed, causing the pilot to lose control of the airplane. The aircraft crashed at a location several miles from the airport. The accident claimed the lives of the pilot and four passengers. One additional passenger was seriously injured.
Probable Cause Findings
The official investigation into the accident identified the probable cause as a double engine failure on final approach. This failure was attributed to three contributing factors: mismanagement of fuel, miscalculation of fuel consumption, and fuel exhaustion. The engine failure directly resulted from the depletion of fuel, which was due to improper fuel management and inaccurate fuel consumption calculations.
Additional Context
The accident occurred at night, but visibility conditions were reported as good. The aircraft was on final approach when the power loss occurred. No other causal factors were specified in the official report beyond the fuel-related issues.