On January 11, 1990, a Piper PA-34-200T (registration N1506X) operated by Orient Air Int'l was involved in an aviation accident near Messena, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE AIRPLANE STRIKING A LIGHT POLE DURING AN OFF AIRPORT LANDING ON A ROAD, DUE TO A DOUBLE POWER LOSS FOR UNKNOWN REASONS. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE PILOTS UNFAMILIARITY WITH THE AIRPLANE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a ferry flight with additional fuel tanks in the cabin, the pilot reported airspeed fluctuations, generator loss, and fuel gauge anomalies. While circling to land, total power loss occurred, resulting in a road landing that struck a light pole. The FAA could not determine the cause.
Accident Details
The aircraft was on a ferry flight with additional fuel tanks installed in the cabin. The pilot reported that the airspeed indicator initially read high, then dropped to zero. He also stated that the left generator was lost and the fuel gauges were indicating a 100 percent increase in fuel consumption. The pilot requested an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to a nearby airport.
Pilot Reports
While circling to land on the base leg, the pilot experienced a total power loss. The aircraft subsequently landed on a road approximately 1,000 feet short of the runway. During the landing, the left wing struck a light pole.
Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was unable to determine the cause of the power loss. The FAA noted that fuel was available in the tanks.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Jan 1990 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Messena, NY?
During a ferry flight with additional fuel tanks in the cabin, the pilot reported airspeed fluctuations, generator loss, and fuel gauge anomalies. While circling to land, total power loss occurred, resulting in a road landing that struck a light pole. The FAA could not determine the cause.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Jan 1990 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N1506X, operated by Orient Air Int'l, at Messena, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE AIRPLANE STRIKING A LIGHT POLE DURING AN OFF AIRPORT LANDING ON A ROAD, DUE TO A DOUBLE POWER LOSS FOR UNKNOWN REASONS. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE PILOTS UNFAMILIARITY WITH THE AIRPLANE.