Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-235 near Port Angeles, WA — 2023-07-30

Final reportWPR23LA293
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Date
2023-07-30
Location
Port Angeles, WA, USA
Airport
W28
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-235
Registration
N8675W
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate fuel monitoring, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported being unable to land at the destination airport at night due to the runway lights not being operational. The pilot then diverted to two other nearby airports but was unable to identify either airport. During the process of trying to locate a runway the pilot did not adequately monitor the fuel onboard and all the fuel was consumed from the selected fuel tank, which resulted in a total loss of engine power. The pilot switched fuel tanks, but the engine did not restart. The pilot has no memory beyond that phase of the event. The airplane collided with trees and terrain, sustaining substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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