No fatalities

Engine failure leads to crash near Moss Town (N6217X)

Moss Town, BahamasLanding (descent or approach)

On April 5, 1977, a Rockwell Aero Commander 560 (registration N6217X) operated by International Air Freight was involved in an aviation accident near Moss Town, Bahamas during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of power from an engine during the final approach phase caused the aircraft to undershoot the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Moss Town following an engine failure during its final approach.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight into Moss Town, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure involving one of its engines. This loss of power resulted in a significant reduction in altitude, making it impossible to maintain the necessary glide path. Consequently, the plane struck the ground before reaching the runway threshold.

The impact caused an immediate fire that consumed the airframe. While there were two occupants on board, both survived the incident, though they sustained injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed in the wreckage.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the failure of an engine while the aircraft was on final approach. This mechanical issue led to an undershoot of the intended landing area.

Probable cause

The loss of power from an engine during the final approach phase caused the aircraft to undershoot the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Apr 1977 Rockwell Aero Commander 560 accident near Moss Town, Bahamas?

An aircraft crashed short of the runway at Moss Town following an engine failure during its final approach.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Apr 1977 Rockwell Aero Commander 560 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Apr 1977 involved a Rockwell Aero Commander 560, registration N6217X, operated by International Air Freight, at Moss Town, Bahamas.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of power from an engine during the final approach phase caused the aircraft to undershoot the runway.