If you omit the narrative of the walkaround, this deadly Baron accident becomes a simple case of loss of control after engine failure. [Shutterstock]
Key Takeaways:
A Beech 58P Baron crashed shortly after takeoff due to a left engine failure, which the NTSB concluded was caused by the pilot's failure to ensure proper fuel selector position, leading to fuel starvation.
The author challenges the NTSB's probable cause, highlighting several inconsistencies such as the left engine running for minutes before takeoff, the discrepancy between the fuel selector handle and valve positions, and the presence of fuel in the engine's distributor.
These inconsistencies cast doubt on whether the pilot intentionally or negligently shut off the fuel supply, suggesting the NTSB's conclusion about the pilot's actions is not definitively proven.
According to the National Transportation Safety Board, the Beech 58P—a pressurized Baron—landed at about 11:15 on a Friday morning.
The pilot, together with two adults and two children, got out and went into the FBO office. The pilot emerged with one of the adults to unload some baggage, which they took inside. A fuel truck rolled up and added fuel.
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Peter Garrison taught himself to use a slide rule and tin snips, built an airplane in his backyard, and flew it to Japan. He began contributing to FLYING in 1968, and he continues to share his columns, ""Technicalities"" and ""Aftermath,"" with FLYING readers.
