Casualties unknown

1990-08-24: Piper PA-31-350 (N250SC) — Telford Aviation, Inc. — Norridgewock, ME

Norridgewock, ME, US

On August 24, 1990, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N250SC) operated by Telford Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Norridgewock, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PREFLIGHT AND INFLIGHT PLANNING OF THE FUEL, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION AND FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot, unable to land due to fog at three airports, experienced dual engine failure from fuel exhaustion and landed in a field. Investigation revealed empty tanks and the pilot admitted not checking fuel before flight.

Incident Overview

A pilot encountered difficulties while attempting to land at multiple airports due to foggy conditions. After initial approach, the pilot aborted the landing and diverted to a second airport. However, that airport was also affected by fog. A third diversion was then attempted.

Diversion Attempts

The pilot flew toward a third airport as an alternative. During this leg, both engines lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a field to avoid further complications.

Engine Failure and Landing

With both engines inoperative, the pilot guided the airplane to a landing in an open field. No other details regarding the condition of the aircraft or occupants were provided.

Investigation Findings

An on-site inspection revealed that the aircraft's fuel tanks were completely empty. The pilot acknowledged that he had not checked the fuel quantity prior to departure. He stated that he first realized the auxiliary tanks contained no fuel when he selected them during the diversion to the third airport.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24125. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.