King Air C90 E90
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 45; Flight Crew Total 2350; Flight Crew Type 45
Human-Machine Interface
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Became Reoriented; Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft; Human Factors
Experienced gradual electrical failure in flight. Lost communications with Center and squawked 7600 for approximately one minute before total electrical loss. Began turn back to departure airport in VFR conditions at 16;000 feet (assigned altitude). Began descent to airport and to acquire cell signal to notify Center and company. Regained power and resolved issue after turn back to airport at approximately 14;500 feet MSL. Once avionics came back online I could hear Center asking other aircraft for help contacting us; so I immediately contacted Center and they redirected me back to 16;000 feet and back direct to destination. No other issues after regaining electrical power.
BE9 pilot experiences a gradual power loss at 16;000 feet resulting in lost communications and the decision to return VFR to the departure airport. During descent electrical power is regained and Center is contacted; allowing the flight to continue to destination.