Casualties unknown

1989-03-12: Piper PA-38-112 (N9378T) — Gingerville, MD

Gingerville, MD, US

On March 12, 1989, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N9378T) was involved in an aviation accident near Gingerville, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PLANNING AND DECISION MAKING EN ROUTE THAT RESULTED IN HIS FAILURE TO STOP AND REFUEL THE AIRPLANE AND FUEL EXHAUSTION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot flying from Pennsylvania to Maryland experienced fuel exhaustion, making an emergency landing on Route 2 after diverting multiple times.

Flight Route and Fuel Stops

The aircraft initially flew from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, to Carrollton, Ohio, where the pilot topped off the fuel tanks. The pilot's intended next stop was Atlantic City, New Jersey, but en route decided to continue to Ocean City, New Jersey. After passing Woodbine, New Jersey, the pilot decided to return to Woodbine for fuel. Upon landing, the pilot discovered that the airport was closed and fuel was unavailable. The flight then continued to the final destination of College Park, Maryland.

Diversion and Fuel Emergency

The pilot flew to Annapolis, Maryland, which was used as a reference point, then proceeded northwest toward College Park. Unable to locate College Park, the pilot returned to Annapolis and informed air traffic control (ATC) that he was low on fuel. ATC issued vectors to nearby Lee Airport. However, fuel exhaustion occurred before reaching the airport.

Forced Landing

The aircraft contacted power lines, a concrete median barrier, and a van during the forced landing on Route 2, south of Annapolis.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27851. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.