No fatalities

Right Engine Malfunction During Takeoff at Tin City (N401M)

Tin City, United States of AmericaTakeoff (climb)

On October 12, 1968, a Rockwell Aero Commander 680 (registration N401M) operated by Munz Northern Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Tin City, United States of America during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was probably caused by a combination of factors: engine failure or malfunction due to carbon deposit, ignition system, spark plugs; stall during initial climb; pilot attempted operation with known deficiencies; pilot failed to abort takeoff;… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff from Tin City, the right engine malfunctioned, causing the pilot to lose control. The aircraft crashed near the runway. Both occupants were seriously injured and the aircraft was destroyed.

Overview

Following a takeoff from Tin City, a right engine malfunction occurred. The pilot subsequently lost control of the aircraft, which crashed in proximity to the runway. The accident resulted in serious injuries to both occupants and complete destruction of the aircraft.

Accident Sequence

According to the investigation, the right engine malfunctioned after takeoff. The pilot was unable to maintain control, leading to the crash near the runway. Witnesses reported that the right engine backfired during the event. Prior to the accident flight, two previous takeoffs had been aborted.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause determination cited a combination of factors: engine failure or malfunction due to carbon deposits, ignition system, and spark plugs; a stall during initial climb; the pilot's attempt to operate with known deficiencies in equipment; failure to abort the takeoff procedure; failure to obtain or maintain flying speed; and a continuation of the takeoff with a steep climb attitude. Additionally, the two prior aborted takeoffs were noted as contributing circumstances.