On December 15, 1991, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N6392J) operated by George M. Grove was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Worth, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. FACTORS WERE THE FUEL STARVATION AND THE TOUGH TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During a daylight local area flight, a private pilot experienced a complete engine power loss. Investigation revealed the left fuel tank was empty and the fuel selector was on the left tank, while the right tank contained sufficient fuel. The pilot landed on uneven terrain.
Incident Overview
A private pilot was conducting a local area flight during daylight hours when the aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power. Post-flight examination of the airplane determined that the left fuel tank was empty and the fuel selector valve was positioned to the left tank. Further inspection revealed that the right fuel tank still contained sufficient fuel to reach the intended destination.
Pilot Actions
Following the power loss, the pilot selected an uneven and rough terrain area for landing. The source notes that more suitable areas for landing were available at the time.
Findings
The investigation identified that the fuel starvation was due to the left tank being empty while the selector was set to that tank. The right tank held ample fuel for the remainder of the flight.
What happened in the 15 Dec 1991 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Fort Worth, TX?
During a daylight local area flight, a private pilot experienced a complete engine power loss. Investigation revealed the left fuel tank was empty and the fuel selector was on the left tank, while the right tank contained sufficient fuel. The pilot landed on uneven terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Dec 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N6392J, operated by George M. Grove, at Fort Worth, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN. FACTORS WERE THE FUEL STARVATION AND THE TOUGH TERRAIN.
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