On June 16, 1989, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N5432P) operated by Fauhlhaber, Donald A. was involved in an aviation accident near San Diego, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL STARVATION DUE TO THE PILOT'S INADVERTENT SELECTION OF THE OFF POSITION ON THE FUEL SELECTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced a complete power loss during initial climb after takeoff. The pilot performed a 180-degree turn and landed in a dirt area on the airport. Examination revealed the fuel selector was off; no other malfunctions were found.
Incident Overview
During the initial climb after takeoff, the aircraft suffered a complete loss of power. The pilot executed a 180-degree turn and subsequently landed in a dirt area situated on the airport grounds.
On-Site Examination
Inspection of the aircraft at the landing site disclosed that the fuel selector was positioned to OFF. The fuel lines forward of the firewall were found ruptured, and the aircraft was resting in a nose-down attitude. No fuel leakage was observed.
Post-Crash Assessment
A post-crash examination of the engine and aircraft systems revealed no malfunctions. The engine was tested while still installed in the airframe for approximately 25 minutes and demonstrated the capability to produce full power.
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