On January 11, 1986, a Beech F33A (registration N20537) operated by James Noel Trometer was involved in an aviation accident near West Memphis, AR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft struck trees and crashed during a forced landing after losing power in cruise. Investigation revealed the right main tank was nearly empty and the left main had about 10 gallons; the fuel selector was found on the left tank.
Accident Events
The aircraft was forced to land after experiencing a loss of power during cruise, approximately 4 and a half hours into the flight. During the forced landing, the aircraft struck trees and subsequently crashed into the ground.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the right main fuel tank was almost empty of fuel, while the left main tank contained an estimated 10 gallons. When questioned, the pilot could not recall which fuel tank he had selected but stated that he would have chosen the fullest one. The fuel selector was found positioned on the left tank.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Jan 1986 Beech F33A accident near West Memphis, AR?
An aircraft struck trees and crashed during a forced landing after losing power in cruise. Investigation revealed the right main tank was nearly empty and the left main had about 10 gallons; the fuel selector was found on the left tank.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jan 1986 involved a Beech F33A, registration N20537, operated by James Noel Trometer, at West Memphis, AR.
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