On July 24, 1987, a Beech 35 (registration N470MC) was involved in an aviation accident near Richwood, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply by selecting the correct tank, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of engine power during approach. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot experienced engine failure due to fuel starvation while on final approach near Richwood, Texas. The aircraft impacted a tree after attempting a forced landing in a field.
What happened
The aircraft was operating on final approach to an airport when the engine ceased functioning. The pilot reported that the failure was caused by fuel starvation. At the time of the incident, the fuel selector valve was positioned to draw from the right tank. However, the left tank still contained approximately 12 gallons of fuel, indicating a mismanagement of available fuel sources rather than total depletion.
The investigation
Post-acc examination revealed that the aircraft impacted a tree following a forced landing attempt in a field near Richwood, Texas. The physical evidence supported the pilot's account regarding the position of the fuel selector and the remaining fuel quantity in the left tank.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply by selecting the correct tank, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of engine power during approach.
What happened in the 24 Jul 1987 Beech 35 accident near Richwood, TX?
A pilot experienced engine failure due to fuel starvation while on final approach near Richwood, Texas. The aircraft impacted a tree after attempting a forced landing in a field.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jul 1987 involved a Beech 35, registration N470MC, at Richwood, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply by selecting the correct tank, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of engine power during approach.
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