On November 5, 1984, a Boeing A75N1 (registration N56234) was involved in an aviation accident near Ely, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion due to a stuck fuel gauge and increased flight distance from mountainous terrain navigation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot executed a forced landing in a swampy area after fuel exhaustion, caused by a stuck fuel gauge and extended flight time due to mountainous terrain navigation.
What happened
The aircraft crashed in a swampy area during a forced landing following an unexpected power loss. The pilot reported that the incident began with a rise in oil temperature while cruising. In an effort to stabilize the oil temperature, the pilot descended to a lower altitude. This change in flight profile necessitated navigating around several mountains, which significantly increased the total flight distance.
Findings
The investigation revealed that the fuel was exhausted before the aircraft could reach the planned en-route refueling stop. Contributing to this outcome, the pilot stated that the fuel gauge was stuck, preventing accurate monitoring of remaining fuel levels during the extended navigation required by the terrain.
Probable cause
Fuel exhaustion due to a stuck fuel gauge and increased flight distance from mountainous terrain navigation.
What happened in the 5 Nov 1984 Boeing A75N1 accident near Ely, NV?
A pilot executed a forced landing in a swampy area after fuel exhaustion, caused by a stuck fuel gauge and extended flight time due to mountainous terrain navigation.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Nov 1984 involved a Boeing A75N1, registration N56234, at Ely, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fuel exhaustion due to a stuck fuel gauge and increased flight distance from mountainous terrain navigation.
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