Accident Summary
A pilot experienced a dual engine failure while en route to a destination airport over the Gulf of Mexico. Approximately 15 nautical miles from the airport at an altitude of 3,000 feet, the right engine suddenly lost power. At that time, the fuel totalizers indicated 48 gallons of fuel onboard, consistent with the fuel quantity gauge. The pilot declared an emergency with air traffic control. Shortly thereafter, the left engine also lost power. Despite troubleshooting attempts, both engines could not be restarted.
Ditching and Rescue
The pilot ditched the aircraft in the Gulf of Mexico and was subsequently rescued from the water without injury. The aircraft was not recovered and could not be examined after the accident.
Investigation
Due to the unrecovered aircraft, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined. The official probable cause is a total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.
Tagline
This incident highlights the challenges of investigating accidents where the aircraft is not recovered, leaving the cause of the engine failure unknown.