Casualties unknown

Dual Engine Failure Due to Fuel Exhaustion in Desert Terrain (N99255)

Jean, NV, US

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.

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

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.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16642. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.