On October 15, 1988, a Piper PA-28-151 (registration N5378F) operated by Tibben Flight Lines Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Cedar Rapids, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failed due to fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a Part 135 air taxi flight, the pilot experienced engine roughness and declared an emergency. Unable to reach the airport, the aircraft crashed short of the runway. Investigation revealed fuel exhaustion, with the aircraft having been converted to a larger, more fuel-consuming engine.
Incident Description
During a Part 135 air taxi operation, the pilot reported that the engine began running rough approximately seven miles from the destination airport. The pilot immediately initiated emergency procedures and communicated with the control tower, declaring an emergency. Despite these efforts, the aircraft was unable to maintain flight and crashed about one mile short of the runway.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation determined that the engine failed due to fuel exhaustion. It was also revealed that the aircraft had been converted to a larger, more powerful engine, which resulted in increased fuel consumption compared to the original configuration. The conversion was a modification made to the aircraft prior to the accident.
What happened in the 15 Oct 1988 Piper PA-28-151 accident near Cedar Rapids, IA?
During a Part 135 air taxi flight, the pilot experienced engine roughness and declared an emergency. Unable to reach the airport, the aircraft crashed short of the runway. Investigation revealed fuel exhaustion, with the aircraft having been converted to a larger, more fuel-consuming engine.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Oct 1988 involved a Piper PA-28-151, registration N5378F, operated by Tibben Flight Lines Inc, at Cedar Rapids, IA.
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