On January 29, 1987, a Beech B23 (registration N6076N) operated by Jeffrey A Van Deren was involved in an aviation accident near Alderwood Manor, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to select the remaining fuel tank after exhausting fuel in one tank. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot exhausted fuel in one tank and failed to select the other during approach, leading to a forced landing compromised by obstructions and lighting conditions.
Accident Overview
During the approach phase of a flight, the pilot exhausted all fuel in one tank and subsequently failed to select the remaining fuel tank. The pilot's unfamiliarity with the make and model of the accident aircraft was considered a factor in his inability to locate the fuel selector and switch to the appropriate tank. As a result, a forced landing became necessary.
Environmental Factors
The forced landing was compromised by the presence of obstructions, specifically trees and a fence. Additionally, dusk lighting conditions further degraded the pilot's ability to execute a safe landing.
Pilot Background
The investigation noted that the pilot lacked familiarity with the specific type of aircraft involved, which contributed to his difficulty in operating the fuel selector system. No other crew members or passengers were mentioned in the report.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to select the remaining fuel tank after exhausting fuel in one tank.