Engine failure leads to ditching of patrol aircraft in Atlantic Ocean

1 fatality • Atlantic Ocean, World • Flight

A patrol flight over the Gulf of Guinea ended in an ocean ditching after both engines experienced simultaneous failures near Annobón Island.

What happened

During a morning patrol mission departing from Lomé Airport, an aircraft flying over the Gulf of Guinea experienced a critical mechanical emergency. While en route, the crew observed a significant rise in temperature across both engines. Shortly after this temperature spike, both powerplants failed nearly at the same time.

In response to the dual engine failure, the pilot initiated a descent to lower altitude and attempted an emergency ditching in the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft went down in international waters, approximately 320 km west of Annobón Island. Of the two people on board, one fatality was recorded, while the other crew member was successfully rescued from the wreckage. Following the impact, the aircraft sank and remains lost.

Findings

Investigations into the accident highlighted several critical indicators of engine distress prior to the loss of power. The crew reported observing excessive temperature levels within the engines alongside a drop to zero oil pressure. These conditions contributed to the simultaneous failure of both engines during the flight.

Probable cause

The simultaneous failure of both engines was driven by excessive temperatures and a total loss of oil pressure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1976-11-18 Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 accident near Atlantic Ocean, World?

A patrol flight over the Gulf of Guinea ended in an ocean ditching after both engines experienced simultaneous failures near Annobón Island.

Were there any fatalities in the 1976-11-18 Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1976-11-18 involved a Rockwell Shrike Commander 500, registration N57278, operated by United Resources, at Atlantic Ocean, World.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The simultaneous failure of both engines was driven by excessive temperatures and a total loss of oil pressure.

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