Incident
During the final approach to Austin-Robert Mueller Airport, the left engine failed. The flight crew continued the approach but did not lower the landing gear. The airplane made a belly landing on the runway and slid for several dozen yards before coming to rest. Two occupants, including the copilot, sustained serious injuries, while 16 other individuals escaped with minor injuries. The aircraft was written off due to the damage sustained.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a failure of the left engine on final approach due to inadequate preflight preparation by the flying crew. Contributing factors reported by investigators included mismanagement of fuel, fuel starvation, failure to ensure the landing gear was down and locked, improper emergency procedures, and failure to follow approved procedures. Additionally, it was noted that the aircraft had been refueled in the right wing with 125 gallons before an 18-minute flight and that the crossflow valve was found off.