On December 9, 1991, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N55839) operated by William J. Jennings was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to calculate his fuel usage, resulting in fuel starvation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb after a night takeoff, the airplane suffered a complete engine power loss at 50-75 feet AGL from fuel starvation, leading to a forced landing in unsuitable terrain. The pilot had not calculated fuel usage.
Event Description
Following a night departure, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during the initial climb, when it was at an altitude of 50 to 75 feet above ground level. The pilot executed a forced landing onto terrain that was unsuitable for landing. After the aircraft came to a stop, the fuel tank selection lever was moved to a position that allowed access to a fuel tank containing fuel. Subsequently, the engine was started without any difficulty, and a functional check of the engine revealed no anomalies.
Findings
Investigators determined that the pilot had failed to calculate the fuel consumption for the flight. This oversight resulted in fuel starvation, which caused the complete loss of engine power during the climb.
Probable cause
The pilot failed to calculate his fuel usage, resulting in fuel starvation.
What happened in the 9 Dec 1991 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Houston, TX?
During initial climb after a night takeoff, the airplane suffered a complete engine power loss at 50-75 feet AGL from fuel starvation, leading to a forced landing in unsuitable terrain. The pilot had not calculated fuel usage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Dec 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N55839, operated by William J. Jennings, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot failed to calculate his fuel usage, resulting in fuel starvation.
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