Casualties unknown

1983-07-04: Cessna 337A (N6302F) — Charles A. Apt — Oxford, AR

Oxford, AR, US

On July 4, 1983, a Cessna 337A (registration N6302F) operated by Charles A. Apt was involved in an aviation accident near Oxford, AR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot of a multi-engine aircraft reported inoperative fuel selector and boost pump, leading to engine failures and an emergency landing on rocky terrain. Post-accident examination found main fuel tanks empty and auxiliary tanks nearly empty.

Background

Before departing on a round trip from Manhattan, Kansas, the aircraft owner informed the pilot that the fuel selector for the rear engine was inoperative and prevented selecting the auxiliary fuel tank. Consequently, the pilot did not use either auxiliary fuel tank during the flight.

Event Sequence

After approximately 2.8 hours of flight time on the return leg, the rear engine's power began to fluctuate. The rear boost pump was also inoperative, and the pilot suspected a vapor lock. About 5 to 10 minutes later, the rear engine lost all power. The pilot initiated a diversion to Salem, Arkansas. Shortly thereafter, the front engine also stopped running. An emergency landing was executed on rocky terrain, resulting in damage to the aircraft.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, both main fuel tanks were found intact but empty. A fuel drain from the right auxiliary tank yielded less than one gallon, while approximately six gallons were drained from the left auxiliary tank.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43744. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.