Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-180 near Margaret, AL — 2012-03-24

Final reportERA12LA253
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Date
2012-03-24
Location
Margaret, AL, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-180
Registration
N7309W
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate in-flight fuel management, which resulted in a total loss of engine power during cruise flight due to fuel starvation.

NTSB narrative

The private pilot and passenger departed on a local flight. During cruise flight, about 1,000 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot selected the other fuel tank. Unable to restart the engine, the pilot landed the airplane on a road, and the airplane struck a ditch. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the right fuel tank was devoid of fuel. Fuel was found in the left tank, and it flowed normally when the left tank was selected utilizing the fuel selector valve. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures were noted that would have precluded normal operation. It is likely that all of the fuel in the right fuel tank was used, and due to the low altitude fuel from the left tank did not reach the engine for attempted restart before the pilot had to configure the airplane for an off-airport landing.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have ensured adequate fuel before flight to prevent power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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