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Power Loss After Fuel Tank Switch Leads to Off-Airport Landing in PA-24 (N5435P)

Plymouth, MA, US

On February 28, 1988, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N5435P) was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, MA. 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 Piper PA-24 pilot reported normal flight until switching fuel tanks and turning on the boost pump, followed by a power loss. The aircraft landed off-airport. Post-accident exam showed left tank empty, right tank had 16 gallons, with no system faults found.

Incident Details

A pilot of a Piper PA-24 reported that all operations were normal until he switched fuel tanks and activated the boost pump. Immediately after, a loss of engine power occurred. The pilot was unable to restart the engine before performing an off-airport landing.

Witness Observation

A witness who was aboard the aircraft stated that the left fuel gauge indicated empty, while the right fuel gauge showed 15 gallons.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, an examination of the aircraft revealed no fuel in the left tank and approximately 16 gallons of fuel in the right tank. No anomalies were identified with the fuel system, the tank selector valve, or the engine.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Feb 1988 Piper PA-24-250 accident near Plymouth, MA?

A Piper PA-24 pilot reported normal flight until switching fuel tanks and turning on the boost pump, followed by a power loss. The aircraft landed off-airport. Post-accident exam showed left tank empty, right tank had 16 gallons, with no system faults found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Feb 1988 involved a Piper PA-24-250, registration N5435P, at Plymouth, MA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25163. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.