On July 21, 1982, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N1885T) operated by Louis Mellinger was involved in an aviation accident near Shanksville, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft experienced engine failure due to fuel exhaustion approximately ten minutes after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing that involved contact with a power line pole.
What happened
During the preflight inspection, the pilot estimated that the aircraft contained approximately 18 gallons of fuel. The flight proceeded normally until approximately ten minutes after takeoff, at which point the engine quit due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot initiated a forced landing procedure, but the aircraft collided with a power line pole during the descent.
The investigation
Investigators consulted with the fixed-base operator (FBO) at the airport regarding the availability of fuel. The FBO reported that fuel was not available for purchase because the supply had been depleted since July 15.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.
What happened in the 21 Jul 1982 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Shanksville, PA?
A light aircraft experienced engine failure due to fuel exhaustion approximately ten minutes after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing that involved contact with a power line pole.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Jul 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N1885T, operated by Louis Mellinger, at Shanksville, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.
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