Tried, Initially, To Return To DFW, But Diverted To Mesquite

Location: Mesquite, TX Accident Number: CEN20LA159
Date & Time: 04/23/2020, 1600 CDT Registration: N477SS
Aircraft: Pilatus PC12 Injuries: 1 Serious

On April 23, 2020, about 1600 central daylight time, a Pilatus PC-12 airplane, N477SS, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Mesquite, Texas. The pilot received serious injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations 91 cross-country flight.

Preliminary reports indicate the pilot reported to air traffic control that he was losing engine power. The pilot then said he was going to divert to Rockwall (airport) and accepted vectors to the airport. The pilot then reported the loss of engine power had stabilized, so he wanted to return to DFW (Dallas-Fort Worth International airport). A few moments later the pilot reported that he was losing engine power and he needed to go back to Rockwall. The controller reported that the Mesquite airport (HQZ) was at the pilot's 11 o'clock position and about 3 miles and gave a heading.

The pilot reported that he was going to perform a 360° turn to set-up for a left base for the Mesquite Airport.

The airplane impacted terrain in a muddy field, short of the airport. The airplane's wings separated in the accident and a post-crash fire developed near the wings. The airplane was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov