Emergency field landing following engine failure

No fatalities • Meeker, United States of America • Flight

An aircraft was forced to perform an emergency landing in an open field after experiencing an engine failure during flight.

What happened

During the flight, the pilot notified air traffic control regarding an engine malfunction. After receiving authorization to divert to the closest airfield for an emergency arrival, the pilot determined that the destination was no longer reachable. Consequently, a decision was made to attempt an emergency landing within an open field.

Upon touchdown, the aircraft type slid across the terrain for several yards before coming to a complete stop. Although the impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair, there were zero fatalities and zero injuries among the four people on board.

Findings

An investigation into the incident revealed that the engine failure was triggered by water contamination within the fuel supply. The source of the contamination was traced back to the refueling process at the departure airport, which occurred during a heavy rainstorm. This weather event allowed rainwater to enter the fuel tanks during the transfer, leading to the subsequent mechanical failure.

Probable cause

The engine failed due to water entering the fuel tanks during refueling in heavy rain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1965-10-18 Rockwell Aero Commander 680 accident near Meeker, United States of America?

An aircraft was forced to perform an emergency landing in an open field after experiencing an engine failure during flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 1965-10-18 Rockwell Aero Commander 680 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1965-10-18 involved a Rockwell Aero Commander 680, registration N6228D, operated by Private United States of America, at Meeker, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed due to water entering the fuel tanks during refueling in heavy rain.

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