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).
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.