On May 17, 1982, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7705Y) operated by Neil & Barbara Stevens was involved in an aviation accident near San Antonio, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion and a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot diverted to San Antonio due to weather but ran out of fuel before arrival, landing in a forest near the airport with less than one gallon remaining.
What happened
The flight was en route to Austin, Texas, when the pilot encountered unfavorable weather conditions. Due to these meteorological issues, the decision was made to divert the aircraft to San Antonio, Texas. As the aircraft approached the destination airport, both engines lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engines but was unsuccessful. Unable to glide to the airport, the pilot landed in a forest of scrub oak trees.
Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that less than one gallon of fuel remained in the fuel system. This critical lack of fuel prevented engine operation and contributed directly to the forced landing.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion and a forced landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 May 1982 Piper PA-30 accident near San Antonio, TX?
A pilot diverted to San Antonio due to weather but ran out of fuel before arrival, landing in a forest near the airport with less than one gallon remaining.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 May 1982 involved a Piper PA-30, registration N7705Y, operated by Neil & Barbara Stevens, at San Antonio, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion and a forced landing.
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