Hawker Beechcraft Corporation E-55 N5885C accident near Coeur D'Alene, Idaho

Probable cause

Loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.

NTSB analysis

The certified flight instructor (CFI) and private pilot undergoing instruction (PUI) had been flying for approximately 1.4 hours when they landed at the departure airport. The CFI requested that the PUI perform a short field takeoff. During the initial climb, the left engine lost power, the CFI confirmed the fuel selectors were on the main tanks, and they force-landed the airplane and impacted a vehicle. The CFI could not recall if the right engine also lost power. According to the CFI, the airplane had been fueled to capacity two days prior to the accident and had flown 2.8 hours when the accident occurred. The CFI said that both flights were flown extensively on the auxiliary tanks, but positioned to the main tanks approximately 5 minutes prior to landing and during the takeoff. Based on the fuel capacity of the airplane, adequate fuel should have been available in the airplane to conduct the flight. However, due to damage sustained during the impact sequence, the amount of fuel in each tank could not be confirmed. Examination of the engines and fuel systems revealed no pre-impact mechanical anomalies.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for SEA08LA134 for the full record.