On March 29, 1991, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7133Y) operated by Michael Lynn Heling was involved in an aviation accident near Butte, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE INFLIGHT DECISIONS, FUEL STARVATION, AND FAILURE TO PERFORM ALTERNATIVE IFR APPROACH PROCEDURES. FACTORS INCLUDE OPERATION WITH KNOWN DEFICIENCIES IN EQUIPMENT, DISORIENTATION, AND LACK OF FAMILIARITY WITH THE GEOGRAPHIC AREA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Piper PA-30 experienced dual engine failure after three ILS approach attempts. During an emergency descent, the right wing-tip struck snow-covered ground, and the aircraft slid sideways to a stop. 10.75 gallons of fuel remained after 5.25 hours aloft.
Accident Details
The pilot of a Piper PA-30 declared an emergency following the failure of both engines after three instrument landing system (ILS) approach attempts. The aircraft had been in flight for approximately 5.25 hours.
Emergency Descent and Landing
During the landing after an emergency descent, the right wing-tip struck the snow-covered surface. The aircraft then slid to a stop in a sideways orientation.
Fuel Remaining
A total of 10.75 gallons of fuel remained in the aircraft at the time of the incident.
Weather Conditions
Weather at the destination airport was reported as visual flight rules (VFR).
What happened in the 29 Mar 1991 Piper PA-30 accident near Butte, MT?
A Piper PA-30 experienced dual engine failure after three ILS approach attempts. During an emergency descent, the right wing-tip struck snow-covered ground, and the aircraft slid sideways to a stop. 10.75 gallons of fuel remained after 5.25 hours aloft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Mar 1991 involved a Piper PA-30, registration N7133Y, operated by Michael Lynn Heling, at Butte, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INADEQUATE INFLIGHT DECISIONS, FUEL STARVATION, AND FAILURE TO PERFORM ALTERNATIVE IFR APPROACH PROCEDURES. FACTORS INCLUDE OPERATION WITH KNOWN DEFICIENCIES IN EQUIPMENT, DISORIENTATION, AND LACK OF FAMILIARITY WITH THE GEOGRAPHIC AREA.
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