On July 31, 1991, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N423FL) operated by Parmley Aviation Services was involved in an aviation accident near Manning, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly position the fuel selector lever, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent loss of power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced wing heaviness and power loss due to an improperly positioned fuel selector lever, resulting in a forced landing in a corn field with substantial damage.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft began exhibiting wing heaviness followed by a complete loss of engine power during flight. Upon realizing the situation, the pilot attempted to execute an emergency landing in a nearby corn field. The landing resulted in substantial damage to the airframe.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel selector lever was positioned over the empty tank. This mechanical position prevented fuel from reaching the engine, directly causing the power loss experienced by the pilot.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to properly position the fuel selector lever. This error led to fuel exhaustion, which caused the engine to stop. The subsequent forced landing resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft structure.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to properly position the fuel selector lever, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent loss of power.
What happened in the 31 Jul 1991 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Manning, IA?
A pilot experienced wing heaviness and power loss due to an improperly positioned fuel selector lever, resulting in a forced landing in a corn field with substantial damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Jul 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N423FL, operated by Parmley Aviation Services, at Manning, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to properly position the fuel selector lever, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent loss of power.
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