Casualties unknown

Night Arrival Accident Following Fuel Tank Switch (N62526)

Excelsior Spgs, MO, US

On March 22, 1988, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N62526) operated by Viking Express was involved in an aviation accident near Excelsior Spgs, MO. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a night arrival, after switching to outboard fuel tanks, both engines lost power. The pilot declared an emergency but could not reach the airport. The aircraft collided with trees during an emergency landing; no usable fuel was found.

Event

While arriving at night, the pilot had been using fuel from the inboard tanks. At some point, the pilot switched to the outboard fuel tanks. Shortly after this change, both engines lost power. The pilot declared an emergency and received vectors to the nearest airport but was unable to reach it.

Emergency Landing

The aircraft subsequently collided with trees during an emergency landing. The accident site was located approximately one-half to one mile from the airport.

Fuel Investigation

No usable fuel was found in the aircraft. Additionally, there was no evidence of fuel spillage at the accident scene.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Mar 1988 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Excelsior Spgs, MO?

During a night arrival, after switching to outboard fuel tanks, both engines lost power. The pilot declared an emergency but could not reach the airport. The aircraft collided with trees during an emergency landing; no usable fuel was found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Mar 1988 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N62526, operated by Viking Express, at Excelsior Spgs, MO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25316. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.