On May 27, 1989, a Piper PA-22-108 (registration N4526Z) operated by Country Flying Education Assn. was involved in an aviation accident near Necedah, WI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to select an appropriate fuel tank for the phase of flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft suffered complete power loss due to fuel starvation while descending for landing, resulting in a nose-over crash that destroyed the plane and injured both occupants.
What happened
The pilot was operating a light aircraft during the descent phase for an intended landing. During this approach, the engine experienced a total loss of power caused by fuel starvation. The aircraft subsequently impacted soft terrain and nosed over, resulting in substantial damage that destroyed the airframe.
Findings
An examination of the fuel system revealed that the fuel selector valve was positioned on the right tank. This specific tank was placarded for level flight only, indicating it was not intended to supply fuel during descent or other high-demand phases of flight. The mismanagement of the fuel source led directly to the engine failure.
The pilot sustained minor injuries in the accident, while the passenger received serious injuries.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to select an appropriate fuel tank for the phase of flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and a subsequent forced landing.
What happened in the 27 May 1989 Piper PA-22-108 accident near Necedah, WI?
A light aircraft suffered complete power loss due to fuel starvation while descending for landing, resulting in a nose-over crash that destroyed the plane and injured both occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 27 May 1989 Piper PA-22-108 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 May 1989 involved a Piper PA-22-108, registration N4526Z, operated by Country Flying Education Assn., at Necedah, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to select an appropriate fuel tank for the phase of flight, which resulted in fuel starvation and a subsequent forced landing.
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