4 fatalities

1981-08-16: Rockwell Grand Commander 680 (N6600M) — P. R. Gerrits — Christiansted-Henry E. Rohlsen (ex Alexander Hamilton), US Virgin Islands

Christiansted-Henry E. Rohlsen (ex Alexander Hamilton), US Virgin IslandsLanding (descent or approach)

On August 16, 1981, a Rockwell Grand Commander 680 (registration N6600M) operated by P. R. Gerrits was involved in an aviation accident near Christiansted-Henry E. Rohlsen (ex Alexander Hamilton), US Virgin Islands during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: the pilot failed to follow approved procedures, improper emergency procedures, complete engine failure on one engine, fuel boost pump found in off position, fuel selector to outboard tanks,… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781222303Data APIEditorial standards

On final approach to Christiansted-Alexander Hamilton Airport, a twin-engine airplane rolled left, descended, and crashed, bursting into flames. The aircraft was destroyed and all four occupants were killed. The investigation cited powerplant failure and pilot errors.

Incident

During the final approach to Christiansted-Alexander Hamilton Airport, a twin-engine aircraft banked left and lost altitude, subsequently crashing and catching fire. The airplane was completely destroyed, resulting in the deaths of all four individuals on board.

Investigation

Investigators determined that the probable cause of the accident was a powerplant failure of undetermined origin. Several contributing factors were identified. The pilot did not adhere to approved procedures and executed improper emergency actions. One engine experienced a complete failure. The fuel boost pump was discovered in the off position, the fuel selector was set to the outboard tanks, the mixtures were found to be lean, and the propeller was not feathered.

Probable Cause

The official finding lists the probable cause as powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors include the pilot's failure to follow approved procedures, improper emergency procedures, complete engine failure on one engine, fuel boost pump in off position, fuel selector to outboard tanks, mixtures lean, and propeller not feathered.