What happened
The pilot was operating a Piper PA-28 aircraft, registration N98SW, while ferrying the plane from Hayti, Missouri, to Exira, Iowa. During an en route stop at Piedmont, Missouri, the pilot attempted to refuel but was unable to do so because no personnel were present at the airport. Consequently, he decided to continue his flight to Salem, Missouri, in order to obtain fuel.
As the aircraft approached its destination, the low fuel quantity light illuminated. The pilot did not have the airport in sight and elected to make a precautionary landing on a nearby drag strip. While approaching the strip, the aircraft cleared wires located at the approach end. However, the landing was hard on the right side of the strip, causing the right wing to strike a large pole.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the accident and the mechanical condition of the aircraft post-impact. The pilot's decision to continue flying after being unable to refuel at Piedmont was noted. The illumination of the low fuel warning light confirmed the fuel status prior to the landing attempt.
Findings
The primary contributing factor was fuel exhaustion. The pilot's inability to secure fuel at an intermediate stop forced a diversion, and the subsequent loss of power necessitated an off-airport landing. The choice of a drag strip as a landing site introduced specific hazards, including overhead wires and ground obstacles like poles.
Safety message
Pilots ferrying aircraft over long distances should ensure adequate fuel reserves and identify multiple refueling options along the route. If fuel cannot be secured at an intermediate stop, the flight should be terminated or diverted to a location with available services rather than continuing with minimal fuel.