Casualties unknown

Fuel Selector Position Leads to Engine Sputtering in N2259A

Brownwood, TX, US

On November 25, 1984, a Piper PA-22 (registration N2259A) was involved in an aviation accident near Brownwood, TX. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A witness pilot and mechanic heard N2259A's engine sputtering as if running out of fuel. Examination revealed the fuel selector was set to the empty right tank, while the left tank was 3/8 full.

Incident Overview

A pilot and A&P mechanic who witnessed the aircraft N2259A in flight reported hearing the engine sputtering, a sound characteristic of fuel exhaustion. Shortly after the aircraft passed overhead, the pilot of N2259A contacted the witness to request assistance moving the aircraft.

Aircraft Examination

Following the incident, an examination of the aircraft was conducted. The fuel selector was found positioned to the 'RIGHT TANK' setting. The right fuel tank contained no fuel, while the left tank was measured at 3/8 of its capacity.

Witness Account

The witness, who holds both a pilot certificate and an A&P mechanic rating, provided a statement consistent with the physical evidence. The witness's description of the engine sputtering matched the condition of the fuel system as found.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41589. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.