On January 6, 1985, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3362M) operated by Aerial Sign CO Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Miramar, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel starvation resulting from fuel shifting forward during the dive maneuver, exhausting fuel in the lines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft towing a banner experienced a power interruption during an abrupt steep dive to release the banner. The pilot attempted a 180-degree turn at about 200 feet AGL to avoid power lines, but the aircraft entered a high descent rate and struck the ground nearly wings level. Investigation revealed uneven fuel distribution and fuel starvation.
Maneuver and Power Interruption
The aircraft was engaged in towing a banner when the pilot entered an abrupt steep dive maneuver to release the banner. During this maneuver, an interruption of engine power occurred. The pilot then initiated a 180-degree turn at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level to avoid power lines.
Descent and Ground Contact
Following the turn, the aircraft entered a high descent rate and subsequently contacted the ground. At the time of impact, the aircraft was nearly wings level.
Fuel Investigation
Post-accident examination of the fuel system revealed that the right fuel tank contained approximately 7 gallons of fuel, while the left tank contained approximately 1 gallon. The fuel pick-up lines are located in the aft portion of the fuel tanks. During the dive maneuver, the fuel shifted to the forward portion of the tanks. As a result, fuel starvation occurred when the fuel in the lines was exhausted.
Probable cause
Fuel starvation resulting from fuel shifting forward during the dive maneuver, exhausting fuel in the lines.