Stinson SM-6000 accident at Pittsburgh-Allegheny County, United States of America, 5 Sept 1936 (NC11175)
On September 5, 1936, a Stinson SM-6000 (registration NC11175) operated by Pittsburgh Skyways was involved in an aviation accident near Pittsburgh-Allegheny County, United States of America during takeoff. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: All three engines failed after the fuel supply was cut off, and there were indications that the pilot had then allowed the Stinson to lose flying speed while attempting an off-airport forced landing, the accident occurring in darkness. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Probable cause
All three engines failed after the fuel supply was cut off, and there were indications that the pilot had then allowed the Stinson to lose flying speed while attempting an off-airport forced landing, the accident occurring in darkness. It was considered possible by the US Bureau of Air Commerce that the passenger who had been sitting on two flare containers in the cockpit had precipitated the crash by inadvertently switching off the fuel selector valve with her heel.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The airplane was chartered to perform a night local sightseeing flight over Pittsburgh with 10 passengers and one pilot on board. Shortly after takeoff, while in initial climb, all three engine stopped. The airplane stalled and crashed. A female passenger aged 17 survived with serious injuries while 10 other occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): All three engines failed after the fuel supply was cut off, and there were indications that the pilot had then allowed the Stinson to lose flying speed while attempting an off-airport forced landing, the accident occurring in darkness. It was considered possible by the US Bureau of Air Commerce that the passenger who had been sitting on two flare containers in the cockpit had precipitated the crash by inadvertently switching off the fuel selector valve with her heel.