On March 30, 1991, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N99255) operated by Michael T. Hagwood was involved in an aviation accident near Jean, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to switch the fuel tank selectors to the outboard tanks, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and total loss of power in both engines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A multi-engine aircraft experienced total power loss in both engines after approximately 90 minutes of flight because the pilot failed to switch fuel selectors to the outboard tanks, which still contained usable fuel.
What happened
Approximately one hour and thirty minutes into the flight, the left engine suffered a total loss of power. While the pilot was attempting to diagnose the mechanical issue, the right engine also lost power. The pilot executed an emergency landing on desert terrain. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with a fence and nosed over.
The investigation
A post-accident examination disclosed that the outboard fuel tanks contained fuel, while the inboard fuel tanks were empty.
Findings
The pilot did not switch the fuel tank selectors to the outboard tanks, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. This procedural error led to the loss of power in both engines.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to switch the fuel tank selectors to the outboard tanks, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and total loss of power in both engines.
What happened in the 30 Mar 1991 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Jean, NV?
A multi-engine aircraft experienced total power loss in both engines after approximately 90 minutes of flight because the pilot failed to switch fuel selectors to the outboard tanks, which still contained usable fuel.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Mar 1991 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N99255, operated by Michael T. Hagwood, at Jean, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to switch the fuel tank selectors to the outboard tanks, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and total loss of power in both engines.
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