PIPER PA-28-161 near Grain Valley, MO — 2022-07-15

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB narrative

Law enforcement reported the airplane overflew a tractor-trailer, landed on the interstate roadway, and impacted a guardrail. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The student pilot reported to law enforcement that the airplane ran out of fuel. While on-scene at the accident location, the pilot was arrested for driving while intoxicated and operating an aircraft while intoxicated. The pilot refused to provide a statement of the accident.

NTSB coding

• Fuel exhaustion · Maneuvering
• Impairment / Incapacitation
• Planning / Preparation

Evidence available

• Photos
• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• ACCIDENT PHOTOGRAPHphotos
• EXCERPT OF MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL REPORTreport

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