Casualties unknown

Engine Failures During Ferry Flight of Long-Inactive Aircraft (N681M)

Burns, OR, US

On August 1, 1990, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N681M) operated by Robert M. Briggs was involved in an aviation accident near Burns, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO A BLOCKED FUEL LINE AND THE OPERATION OF THE AIRCRAFT IN AN NON-AIRWORTHY CONDITION BY THE PIC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A ferry flight of an aircraft inactive for eight years experienced two engine failures, resulting in a forced landing with damage. Post-accident examination revealed empty left fuel tanks and a blocked right outboard tank line.

Introduction

An aircraft that had been inactive for eight years was being ferried to the pilot's facilities for rebuilding. The ferry flight encountered multiple engine failures, leading to a forced landing that resulted in structural damage.

Flight and Engine Failures

During cruise flight, the right engine ceased operation and the propeller could not be feathered. The aircraft was unable to maintain altitude in that configuration, prompting the pilot to initiate a forced landing. While descending, the left engine also quit.

The aircraft subsequently impacted soft terrain. The landing gear collapsed, and the lower fuselage sustained damage.

Maintenance and Permit Status

The last annual inspection of the aircraft had been conducted in 1982. The ferry permit issued for the flight had expired two weeks prior to the accident. Before the flight, a fuel tank was changed, and the pilot applied tape on the filler cap.

Post-Accident Findings

Examination of the aircraft's fuel system after the accident revealed that the left fuel tanks were empty. Additionally, the right outboard tank line was blocked. The right outboard tank had been selected when the right engine quit.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24133. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.