Narrative:An overheated no. 2 engine caused a loss of power. The pilot wasn't able to keep the prop feathered and had to ditch the aircraft in 15 feet of water, 300 m offshore. The aircraft was carrying 3 Enstrom helicopters to San Juan with an enroute stop at Miami.
Probable Cause:
PROBABLE CAUSE:
pilot in command - attempted operation w/known deficiencies in equipment
personnel - maintenance,servicing,inspection: inadequate maintenance and inspection
powerplant - propeller and accessories: governors
powerplant - ignition system: magnetos
miscellaneous acts,conditions - excessive-wear/play
pilot in command - failed to follow approved procedures,directives,etc.
FACTORS:
miscellaneous acts,conditions - aircraft came to rest in water
partial power loss - partial loss of power - 1 engine
Classification:
Ditching
Sources:
» NTSB
Photos

accident date:
06-05-1977type: Curtiss C-46F Commando
registration: N355W
This information is not presented as the Flight Safety Foundation or the Aviation Safety Network’s opinion as to the cause of the accident. It is preliminary and is based on the facts as they are known at this time.