Engine flameout during approach to Bullhead City Airport

No fatalities • Bullhead City, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A flight diverted to Bullhead City Airport following a missed approach at the Grand Canyon experienced dual engine flameouts due to ice ingestion.

What happened

Following a missed approach at the Grand Canyon Airport, the crew diverted the aircraft type to Bullhead City Airport. During the flight, the pilots encountered light icing conditions, noting that approximately 1/8 inch of ice had gathered on the wings. To manage this, the crew utilized the deice boots to remove the accumulation.

As the aircraft was on a 3-mile final approach with the landing gear and flaps deployed, both engines experienced a flameout. The aircraft subsequently performed an off-airport landing, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft type.

Findings

Investigation into the event revealed that while the pilots observed ice on the wings, they did not notice any ice buildup on the propeller spinners. Crucially, the crew failed to engage the engine override ignition systems as mandated by the flight manual. According to the manufacturer's procedures, these systems must be activated when flying through visible moisture at temperatures of +5 degrees Celsius (+41 degrees Fahrenheit) or lower to protect against engine flameouts caused by ice ingestion.

Probable cause

The failure to activate the required engine override ignition systems while flying in icing conditions led to dual engine flameouts.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-01-05 Swearingen SA227 Metro III accident near Bullhead City, United States of America?

A flight diverted to Bullhead City Airport following a missed approach at the Grand Canyon experienced dual engine flameouts due to ice ingestion.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-01-05 Swearingen SA227 Metro III accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-01-05 involved a Swearingen SA227 Metro III, registration N165SW, operated by Skylink Charter, at Bullhead City, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure to activate the required engine override ignition systems while flying in icing conditions led to dual engine flameouts.

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