Rockwell Aero Commander 500 crash, Sep 6, 1997 (2 killed)
Rockwell Aero Commander 500 accident on September 6, 1997 near Ketchikan, Alaska, United States with 2 fatalities. Cause: Progressive rupture of the...
- Date: September 6, 1997
- Aircraft: Rockwell Aero Commander 500
- Location: Ketchikan, Alaska, United States
- Fatalities: 2
- Phase of flight: En route
- Cause: Progressive rupture of the right engine fuel supply line from inadequate inspection, the pilot's excessive pull-up that exceeded the airframe design limits, and improper emergency procedures including failure to feather the propeller.
A Rockwell Commander 500A broke up in flight near Ketchikan, Alaska, while flying from Wrangell to Everett. The left wing and tail separated after a progressive fuel line rupture on the right engine, which the pilot did not feather. Investigators also cited the pilot's disorientation and limited instrument skills.