Accident Overview
The aircraft was being repatriated from Kinshasa, Zaire, to the United States. The accident occurred on the segment of the flight from Biggin Hill, United Kingdom, to Reykjavik, Iceland. While approaching the Icelandic coast, the left engine failed. The crew declared an emergency and received clearance to divert to Vestmannaeyjar Airport.
Sequence of Events
After diverting toward Vestmannaeyjar, the crew began circling for landing. During this maneuvering, the right engine also failed. The crew lost control of the aircraft, which subsequently crashed into the sea a few kilometers offshore. Both occupants of the aircraft were killed.
Investigation and Probable Cause
An investigation determined the cause of the dual engine failure. The official finding stated that the presence of a foreign material in the airframe fuel filters restricted fuel flow, leading to fuel starvation in both engines. This material blocked the filters, depriving the engines of adequate fuel and causing both to fail.