Twin-engine aircraft crash during final approach

3 fatalities • Oklahoma City-Downtown Airpark, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine airplane crashed short of the runway after striking power lines during its final approach, resulting in three fatalities.

What happened

During the final approach phase of flight, a twin-engine aircraft descended below the required altitude and collided with overhead power cables. The impact caused the plane to enter a stall, leading to a crash into a fire shortly after the collision. The accident occurred only a few dozen yards before reaching the runway threshold.

All three people on board the aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the pilot failed to accurately estimate the aircraft's altitude and distance from the ground during the approach. This misjudgment led to the collision with the electrical lines. The presence of high-altitude obstructions in the vicinity was also identified as a contributing factor to the event.

Probable cause

The pilot's inaccurate assessment of altitude and distance during final approach caused the aircraft to strike power cables.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1973-03-18 Rockwell Grand Commander 680 accident near Oklahoma City-Downtown Airpark, United States of America?

A twin-engine airplane crashed short of the runway after striking power lines during its final approach, resulting in three fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1973-03-18 Rockwell Grand Commander 680 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1973-03-18 involved a Rockwell Grand Commander 680, registration N7312, operated by Georg O. Mejlaender Jr., at Oklahoma City-Downtown Airpark, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inaccurate assessment of altitude and distance during final approach caused the aircraft to strike power cables.

Loading the flight search…