On November 30, 1991, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration CFKTQ) operated by Fraser, David C. was involved in an aviation accident near Everett, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL STARVATION DUE TO IMPROPER PROCEDURES BY THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND. FACTORS INCLUDE LACK OF FAMILIARITY WITH THE AIRCRAFT, NON-FUNCTIONING FLIGHT COMPARTMENT LIGHTS, AND NON-SUITABLE TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Piper PA-24-250 struck sloping terrain short of the runway while attempting a forced landing. The pilots used a flashlight instead of instrument panel lighting. Fuel system modifications and selector positions were noted.
Accident Overview
The Piper PA-24-250 impacted sloping terrain short of the runway during an attempted forced landing. The pilots were relying on a flashlight for illumination as the instrument panel lighting was not functioning.
Fuel System Details
According to normal fuel consumption calculations, at least 1.5 hours of fuel should have remained at the time of the accident. The aircraft's fuel system had been modified from standard configuration with the installation of wingtip fuel tanks and two fuel selectors instead of one. Examination of the wreckage revealed that the right main fuel tank selector was selected on, while the left selector was in the off position. The fuel sediment bowl was found broken, and the wreckage came to rest on a slope, which allowed any remaining fuel to drain from the system.
Flight Conditions
No further details regarding the flight conditions or injuries were provided in the source.
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