On October 10, 1987, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8391A) was involved in an aviation accident near Weston, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot executed an emergency landing after experiencing a power loss while approaching the Boston Terminal Control Area, striking power lines before impacting the ground.
What happened
During a night arrival, the aircraft was approaching the Boston Terminal Control Area (TCA). The pilot descended to 1,000 feet. As he leveled off, he noted a loss of power and was unable to reach the destination airport. He identified a field and initiated an emergency landing. During the approach, the aircraft struck power lines before impacting the ground.
The investigation
The pilot reported a faulty fuel gauge. He told authorities he believed the aircraft ran out of fuel.
Findings
The accident occurred during the landing phase of flight in visual meteorological conditions. The primary factor was fuel exhaustion due to a faulty fuel gauge. The pilot was not injured.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.
What happened in the 10 Oct 1987 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Weston, MA?
A pilot executed an emergency landing after experiencing a power loss while approaching the Boston Terminal Control Area, striking power lines before impacting the ground.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Oct 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8391A, at Weston, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.
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