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6 fatalities

Crash After Rapid Descent During Base Turn; Exhaust Adapter Fractured (N3711T)

Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 20, 1983, a Rockwell Aero Commander 685 (registration N3711T) operated by Technical Computer Services was involved in an aviation accident near Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of America during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Occurrence #1: loss of engine power (partial) – mechanical failure/malfunction, phase of operation: approach – VFR pattern – base turn. Finding: (c) exhaust system, manifold/pipe – fatigue. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archiveUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While turning from downwind to base leg, an aircraft descended rapidly in a steep bank with smoke trailing, then crashed in an industrial area. Examination revealed a fractured exhaust-to-turbo adapter due to thermal fatigue. The right engine had partial power loss. All six occupants were killed.

Accident

While turning from downwind to base leg, the aircraft was observed descending rapidly in a steep bank. Witnesses reported smoke trailing from the aircraft. The aircraft subsequently crashed in an industrial area. All six occupants were killed.

Examination

An examination of the right engine revealed that the exhaust-to-turbo adapter, part number 641829, had fractured and separated. The fracture was a result of thermal fatigue and had propagated across more than 95% of the area before final separation occurred. Examination of the cowling and both engines showed no streaking heat or smoke patterns; therefore, the reported smoke was attributed to exhaust gas. While there was a loss of power in the right engine, no other aircraft malfunctions were found that would have caused loss of control.

Official Probable Cause

The official probable cause was:

  • Occurrence #1: loss of engine power (partial) – mechanical failure/malfunction, phase of operation: approach – VFR pattern – base turn. Finding: (c) exhaust system, manifold/pipe – fatigue.
  • Occurrence #2: forced landing, phase of operation: maneuvering – turn to landing area (emergency).
  • Occurrence #3: in-flight collision with terrain/water, phase of operation: maneuvering – turn to landing area (emergency). Finding: (c) aircraft handling – inadequate – pilot in command.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 1983 Rockwell Aero Commander 685 accident near Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of America?

While turning from downwind to base leg, an aircraft descended rapidly in a steep bank with smoke trailing, then crashed in an industrial area. Examination revealed a fractured exhaust-to-turbo adapter due to thermal fatigue. The right engine had partial power loss. All six occupants were killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jul 1983 Rockwell Aero Commander 685 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 1983 involved a Rockwell Aero Commander 685, registration N3711T, operated by Technical Computer Services, at Cleveland-Hopkins, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Occurrence #1: loss of engine power (partial) – mechanical failure/malfunction, phase of operation: approach – VFR pattern – base turn. Finding: (c) exhaust system, manifold/pipe – fatigue. Occurrence #2: forced landing, phase of operation: maneuvering – turn to landing area (emergency). Occurrence #3: in-flight…

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