Casualties unknown

Forced Landing After Power Loss Near Richmond, Virginia (N63737)

Richmond, VA, US

On July 27, 1983, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N63737) was involved in an aviation accident near Richmond, VA. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot performed a forced landing after a power loss on approach to Richmond, Virginia. The flight had operated for 4 hours with 7 takeoffs since refueling. Both propellers were feathered; the left fuel line was broken, and the right wing held about one pint of fuel.

Accident Overview

A pilot executed a forced landing after experiencing a power loss while on approach to Richmond, Virginia. The aircraft came to rest at an undisclosed location. Following the event, both propellers were discovered in the feathered position.

Flight Details

The flight had been operating for a total of 4 hours since its last refueling, during which it had completed 7 takeoffs. The specific aircraft type, registration, and operator were not provided.

Fuel System Examination

Post-accident inspection revealed that the right wing fuel system remained intact and contained approximately one pint of fuel. The left wing fuel system sustained damage that prevented an accurate measurement of its fuel quantity. A small amount of fuel was found in the quick drain filters and in the fuel line leading to the right engine. The left fuel line from the pump to the engine was broken. No odor of fuel, fuel stains, or discoloration of foliage were observed at the accident scene.

Conclusion

The source document does not assign a probable cause for the power loss. The findings indicate fuel system irregularities, but no definitive causal link is established.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jul 1983 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Richmond, VA?

A pilot performed a forced landing after a power loss on approach to Richmond, Virginia. The flight had operated for 4 hours with 7 takeoffs since refueling. Both propellers were feathered; the left fuel line was broken, and the right wing held about one pint of fuel.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jul 1983 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N63737, at Richmond, VA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43588. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.