Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-22 near Aurora, WV — 2009-05-31

Final reportERA09CA314
Sign in to save
Date
2009-05-31
Location
Aurora, WV, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-22
Registration
N4824A
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight planning and preparation which resulted in a low fuel condition requiring an off-airport landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot departed from Suffolk, Virginia, at about 1105, with full fuel tanks, en route to Elkins, West Virginia (EKN). While en route at about 6,000 feet above ground level, he encountered weather over the mountains which prevented him from continuing direct to EKN under visual meteorological conditions. At that time he chose to fly north, up the valley, in hopes of finding a break in the weather. After about 40 minutes, he was unable to continue due to low fuel, and decided to land in a farm pasture. Upon landing, he discovered the grass to be much taller than anticipated. The airplane became entangled, resulting in a nose-over that substantially damaged the vertical stabilizer and wings. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

Related mishaps