Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) crash, Mar 18, 1979 (4 killed)
Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) accident on March 18, 1979 near Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field Colorado, United States with 4 fatalities. Cause:...
- Date: March 18, 1979
- Aircraft: Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601)
- Location: Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field Colorado, United States
- Fatalities: 4
- Phase of flight: Takeoff and climb
- Cause: Engine failure or malfunction followed by an uncontrolled descent for reasons the NTSB could not determine. Contributing factors listed were known equipment deficiencies, an undetermined powerplant failure, improper emergency procedures, high density altitude (about 8,600 feet), and a left engine reported rough before takeoff.
A Ted Smith Aerostar 601P (N35FC) operated by May Petroleum took off from Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field bound for Amarillo. Shortly after takeoff the pilot reported an engine malfunction and asked to return for an emergency landing. The aircraft then lost control and crashed in flames, killing all four occupants. The NTSB investigated under report DEN79FA030.