Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-180 near Nephi, UT — 2024-05-31

Final reportWPR24LA178
Sign in to save
Date
2024-05-31
Location
Nephi, UT, USA
Airport
U14
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-180
Registration
N7838W
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s incorrect movement of the fuel selector valve to an off or restricted position, which resulted in fuel starvation and a loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during cruise flight, about 900 to 1,000 ft above ground level, he switched fuel tanks, and shortly after, the engine began to sputter and lose power. He attempted to troubleshoot by advancing the mixture and throttle levers, however, was unable to restore engine power and initiated a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll, the nose wheel dug into soft terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the engine mount and right wing. The pilot stated that he may have placed the fuel selector valve to an intermediate position and not within the fuel selector detents, which likely starved the engine for fuel. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

Related mishaps