On May 12, 1990, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N6382C) was involved in an aviation accident near Anderson, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel starvation due to improper fuel management, as the fuel selector was positioned to the empty right tank while the left tank was full. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot and passenger experienced a total engine power loss during a night cross-country flight. The fuel selector was on the right tank (empty), while the left tank was full. The aircraft impacted trees short of the runway during an emergency landing.
Incident Overview
During a night cross-country flight, a private pilot and one passenger were returning to their intended destination airport. As they neared the airport, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot attempted an emergency landing at the intended airport, but the aircraft struck trees and impacted the ground short of the runway.
Investigation Findings
An investigation of the accident revealed that the fuel selector was positioned to the right tank. That tank contained no usable fuel. In contrast, the left fuel tank was full of fuel. The improper selection of the empty fuel tank resulted in fuel starvation, causing the engine power loss.
Probable cause
Fuel starvation due to improper fuel management, as the fuel selector was positioned to the empty right tank while the left tank was full.
What happened in the 12 May 1990 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Anderson, IN?
A private pilot and passenger experienced a total engine power loss during a night cross-country flight. The fuel selector was on the right tank (empty), while the left tank was full. The aircraft impacted trees short of the runway during an emergency landing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 May 1990 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N6382C, at Anderson, IN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fuel starvation due to improper fuel management, as the fuel selector was positioned to the empty right tank while the left tank was full.
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