Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA 28 near Thomson, GA — 2016-12-02

Final reportGAA17CA089
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Date
2016-12-02
Location
Thomson, GA, USA
Airport
HQU
Aircraft
PIPER PA 28
Registration
N2367R
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper preflight planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the total loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while on a cross-country flight, he diverted from his destination to a nearby airport due to low fuel. He added that the right fuel tank "went dry" and that the engine lost power on downwind, so he switched to the left fuel tank, and the engine momentarily restarted before it experienced a total power loss of power on base. Subsequently, the airplane impacted the instrument landing system lights, which resulted in substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He reported that he miscalculated the fuel and "ran out of gas." A postaccident examination found about 1 cup of fuel in one of the tanks.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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