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3 fatalities

Twin-Engine Aircraft Strikes Power Cables During Final Approach (N7312)

Oklahoma City-Downtown Airpark, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 18, 1973, a Rockwell Grand Commander 680 (registration N7312) operated by Georg O. Mejlaender Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Oklahoma City-Downtown Airpark, United States of America during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged distance and altitude on final approach, causing the aircraft to hit power cables and to crash. High obstructions were considered as a contributory factor. 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 archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft struck power cables while too low on final approach, stalling and crashing in flames just short of the runway. All three occupants were killed.

Accident Overview and Outcome During its final approach, a twin-engine aircraft descended at an altitude that was too low for the environment. The aircraft contacted power cables, which led to an aerodynamic stall. The plane subsequently crashed in flames a few dozen yards before reaching the runway. All three people on board were killed in the incident. ## Official Findings The investigation determined that the pilot misjudged the aircraft's distance and altitude during the final approach. This error caused the aircraft to strike the power cables and crash. The presence of high obstructions was identified as a contributory factor in the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot misjudged distance and altitude on final approach, causing the aircraft to hit power cables and to crash. High obstructions were considered as a contributory factor.

Frequently asked questions

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

A twin-engine aircraft struck power cables while too low on final approach, stalling and crashing in flames just short of the runway. All three occupants were killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Mar 1973 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 18 Mar 1973 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 misjudged distance and altitude on final approach, causing the aircraft to hit power cables and to crash. High obstructions were considered as a contributory factor.

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