On February 9, 1975, a Rockwell Grand Commander 680 (registration N680LP) operated by Nancy M. Ackley was involved in an aviation accident near Palm Beach-Intl, United States of America in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure or malfunction during normal cruise for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A pilot en route from Winter Haven to Marsh Harbour reported a left engine fire, ditched the aircraft off Palm Beach, and was rescued. The wreckage was not recovered.
Incident Details
While flying from Winter Haven, Florida, to Marsh Harbour, Bahamas, the pilot contacted air traffic control to report that the left engine was on fire. The pilot reduced altitude and performed a ditching maneuver several miles off the coast of Palm Beach, Florida. The aircraft sank and was lost. The sole occupant, the pilot, was rescued. The wreckage was not recovered.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an engine failure or malfunction during normal cruise for undetermined reasons. Additional findings reported include: a fire in the engine, the aircraft was ditched due to the left engine fire following the failure of the left engine, and the wreckage was not found. The lack of recovered wreckage limited further analysis.