On October 19, 1991, a Piper PA-24-260 (registration N9122P) operated by David H. Balsan was involved in an aviation accident near Montgomery, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO CORRECTLY POSITION THE FUEL SELECTOR WHEN THE RIGHT MAIN FUEL TANK WAS EXHAUSTED, RESULTING IN FUEL STARVATION TO THE ENGINE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb, the engine failed after a brief restart. The pilot performed a forced landing, but the aircraft hit trees. Post-accident examination revealed the fuel selector was off and the right main tank empty, with no fuel leakage found.
Accident Overview
The accident occurred during the initial climb after takeoff. The engine quit, then started again momentarily before failing completely. The pilot elected to make a forced landing. During the subsequent descent, the airplane impacted trees.
Post-Accident Inspection
Examination of the wreckage showed that the right fuel tank was empty, with no evidence of fuel leakage. The left main fuel tank contained approximately half its capacity. Both auxiliary fuel tanks were full. The fuel selector valve switch was found in the 'OFF' position. The fuel boost pump was set to 'ON'. The fuel strainer and sump were found devoid of any fuel. No mechanical discrepancies were discovered during the inspection of the airframe and engine.
Pilot Background
The pilot-in-command had accumulated a total of 2 flight hours in this type of airplane.
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