On October 14, 1988, a Piper PA-24-180 (registration N8088P) operated by Ira Hanson was involved in an aviation accident near Alexandria, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POOR JUDGEMENT OF THE PLT BY FLYING WHILE PHYSICALLY IMPAIRED FROM CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL, HIS IMPROPER INFLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION, AND FUEL EXHAUSTION FROM HIS INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot was concussed and found with a 0.12% blood alcohol level after an emergency landing on a highway median at night. No fuel remained in the tanks.
Accident Details
During a night emergency landing on an interstate highway, the aircraft first contacted the median. It then bounced over the eastbound lanes and came to rest in an adjacent field. The pilot sustained a concussion and could not recall the accident.
Fuel and Toxicology Findings
No fuel remained in the aircraft's fuel tanks after the accident. The odor of alcohol was detected on the pilot's breath. A blood sample taken approximately one hour after the accident showed an alcohol level of 0.12% (grams/100 ml). The pilot's last medical certificate was dated July 17, 1986.
Investigation Outcome
The investigation did not state a probable cause for the accident. However, the evidence includes the pilot's elevated blood alcohol level and the absence of fuel.
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