On April 8, 1989, a Beech A23 (registration N2326W) operated by Floyd Clyde L was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeland, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to switch to the left fuel tank, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot lost engine power during final approach because he failed to switch fuel tanks, relying on faulty gauges that indicated sufficient fuel remained.
What happened
The private pilot reported flying for approximately two hours and twenty minutes, utilizing the right fuel tank during the flight. While established on final approach for landing, the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot stated that he did not reposition the fuel selector to the left tank before the aircraft impacted the ground.
Findings
The pilot indicated that the fuel gauges displayed sufficient fuel in both tanks prior to the incident. However, the sequence of events suggests a failure to manage fuel supply correctly despite these indications.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to switch to the left fuel tank, which resulted in fuel exhaustion.
What happened in the 8 Apr 1989 Beech A23 accident near Lakeland, FL?
A private pilot lost engine power during final approach because he failed to switch fuel tanks, relying on faulty gauges that indicated sufficient fuel remained.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Apr 1989 involved a Beech A23, registration N2326W, operated by Floyd Clyde L, at Lakeland, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to switch to the left fuel tank, which resulted in fuel exhaustion.
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