On October 1, 1988, a Beech V35A (registration N8076R) operated by Fitzgerald, Alan was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Lauderdale, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported complete engine failure about 15 minutes after departure, leading to a forced landing with nose gear collapse. Post-crash examination found empty fuel tanks and inaccurate gauges.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that approximately 15 minutes after takeoff from Fort Lauderdale, the engine quit completely. Unable to return to the airport, the pilot attempted a forced landing in a field. During the landing, the aircraft touched down nose-down, causing the nose gear to collapse. The aircraft then slid to a stop.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination of the fuel system revealed that the right fuel tank was empty due to damage sustained during the impact sequence. The left fuel tank was also empty, but no damage was found to the fuel lines connecting the left tank to the engine. Investigators added five gallons of fuel to the system, after which the engine started and ran for approximately three minutes. Further inspection showed the fuel gauges to be inaccurate.
What happened in the 1 Oct 1988 Beech V35A accident near Fort Lauderdale, FL?
A pilot reported complete engine failure about 15 minutes after departure, leading to a forced landing with nose gear collapse. Post-crash examination found empty fuel tanks and inaccurate gauges.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Oct 1988 involved a Beech V35A, registration N8076R, operated by Fitzgerald, Alan, at Fort Lauderdale, FL.
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