On April 27, 1990, a Piper PA28-235 (registration N9488W) operated by John W. Smith was involved in an aviation accident near Granbury, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate fuel supply, which resulted in engine power loss and an ensuing collision with wires. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying a single-engine aircraft experienced an in-flight engine failure due to fuel exhaustion. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the aircraft collided with wires and crashed into a nearby field.
What happened
The pilot was operating a single-engine airplane on a local area flight when the engine lost power at low altitude while returning to the airport. The pilot attempted to switch fuel tanks and restart the engine, but the aircraft collided with wires before impacting a field.
The investigation
The pilot stated that he had run a tank dry, which starved the engine of fuel. He acknowledged that he was flying too low to glide to a suitable landing area.
Findings
Fuel exhaustion due to running a tank dry
Inability to restart the engine
Low altitude prevented safe gliding distance
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate fuel supply, which resulted in engine power loss and an ensuing collision with wires.
What happened in the 27 Apr 1990 Piper PA28-235 accident near Granbury, TX?
A pilot flying a single-engine aircraft experienced an in-flight engine failure due to fuel exhaustion. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the aircraft collided with wires and crashed into a nearby field.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Apr 1990 involved a Piper PA28-235, registration N9488W, operated by John W. Smith, at Granbury, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate fuel supply, which resulted in engine power loss and an ensuing collision with wires.
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