On September 2, 1988, a Piper PA-24-260C (registration N9436P) was involved in an aviation accident near Hamilton, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot lost engine power during a right turn with gear extended after selecting the right main fuel tank. Unable to restore power, he glided and retracted gear but landed wheels-up in a field short of the runway. Post-crash inspection found no pre-accident failure and no fuel in the right main tank.
Accident Overview
A private pilot was descending to the destination airport at the conclusion of a 3.5-hour cross-country flight. The pilot stated that he had selected the right main fuel tank and continued flying until the fuel was low to the point of exhaustion. During a right turn with the landing gear extended, the engine lost power. All subsequent efforts to restore power were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
The pilot attempted to glide to the airport and retracted the landing gear, but was forced to land in a field short of the runway. The aircraft impacted the ground wheels up and skidded 60 yards before coming to rest.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot believed that the electric fuel boost pump failed to supply fuel fast enough and contributed to the accident. A post-accident inspection conducted by an FAA inspector did not reveal any pre-accident failure or malfunction. No fuel was found in the right main fuel tank.
What happened in the 2 Sept 1988 Piper PA-24-260C accident near Hamilton, MT?
A private pilot lost engine power during a right turn with gear extended after selecting the right main fuel tank. Unable to restore power, he glided and retracted gear but landed wheels-up in a field short of the runway. Post-crash inspection found no pre-accident failure and no fuel in the right main tank.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Sept 1988 involved a Piper PA-24-260C, registration N9436P, at Hamilton, MT.
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