Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 50; Flight Crew Total 5300; Flight Crew Type 300
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft
In cruise flight at FL190; the right engine suddenly failed and the propeller began windmilling. After shutting off the autopilot; adjusting the operative engine's power controls and performing the memory items from the Engine Failure in Flight Checklist; I consulted the checklist to confirm all items had been completed. I then informed ATC that we had an engine failure and would like to divert to the nearest suitable airport. ATC advised there was an airport straight ahead and 40 miles away; but I elected to divert to ZZZ; having found the airport information in the onboard GPS database. ZZZ was roughly 23 miles to the south. ATC asked if I would like to declare an emergency; and I responded in the affirmative and was given clearance to descend at my discretion to 8;000 FT and to turn direct to ZZZ. As I descended; I informed the passengers of the situation and plan; and that they should make sure their seat belts were secure. At this time I executed the Securing Inoperative Engine Checklist. I was cleared for the visual approach and landed uneventfully.
A C421 Captain experienced an engine failure at FL190 and diverted to the nearest suitable airport after shutting the engine down.