Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-25-235 near Muskogee, OK — 2024-09-26

Final reportCEN24LA370
Sign in to save
Date
2024-09-26
Location
Muskogee, OK, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-25-235
Registration
N6548Z
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inattention to refueling during turn-around operations which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was returning from his third aerial application flight of the day when the engine sputtered and lost all power. While attempting to land, the left wing collided with trees and the airplane cartwheeled. The wings and fuselage were substantially damaged. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel tank contained no fuel. The fuel system was intact, and no leaks were noted. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He reported that he reloaded chemicals and but forgot to refuel the airplane. He stated he spent about 10 minutes on the ground before the accident flight and that he could have slowed down and given more attention to refueling.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

Related mishaps