Casualties unknown

Pilot Ditches Aircraft After Loss of Fuel Pressure; Malfunction Undetermined (N4524J)

Cedar Key, FL, US

On August 27, 1986, a Piper PA-28-R (registration N4524J) was involved in an aviation accident near Cedar Key, FL. 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 reported a loss of fuel pressure and subsequently ditched the aircraft six miles northwest of Cedar Key. Post-crash examination found sufficient fuel and no blockages, but the cause of the malfunction could not be determined.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot, the aircraft experienced a loss of fuel pressure during flight. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the efforts were unsuccessful. The pilot then attempted to reach Cedar Key but was unable to do so, resulting in a ditching in ocean waters approximately six miles northwest of Cedar Key.

Post-Crash Examination

Following the accident, an examination of the fuel system revealed that the aircraft had sufficient fuel onboard. No evidence of any blockage was found in the fuel system components. A bench test of the fuel injection servo indicated no discrepancies or malfunctions.

Investigation Outcome

After reviewing the available evidence, investigators stated that a determination could not be made regarding the nature of the fuel system malfunction described by the pilot. The exact cause of the loss of fuel pressure remains undetermined.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Aug 1986 Piper PA-28-R accident near Cedar Key, FL?

A pilot reported a loss of fuel pressure and subsequently ditched the aircraft six miles northwest of Cedar Key. Post-crash examination found sufficient fuel and no blockages, but the cause of the malfunction could not be determined.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Aug 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-R, registration N4524J, at Cedar Key, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34559. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.