Casualties unknown

Piper PA-23-160 Lands Short of Runway After Dual Engine Power Loss Due to Fuel Exhaustion (N4317P)

Burley, ID, US

On July 21, 1992, a Piper PA-23-160 (registration N4317P) operated by Wesley F. Johnson was involved in an aviation accident near Burley, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion resulting in loss of power in both engines. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A Piper PA-23-160 sustained substantial damage when it landed about half a mile short of the runway at Burley, Idaho, after both engines lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The aircraft was on its second approach following a go-around.

Accident Details

A Piper PA-23-160 aircraft experienced a loss of power in both engines while on approach to Burley, Idaho. The pilot had just completed a go-around and was on his second approach at the conclusion of a flight from St. George, Utah. The aircraft landed approximately half a mile short of the runway, resulting in substantial damage.

Fuel and Flight Information

The aircraft had been fueled to a total of 72 gallons before departure. Normal cruise fuel consumption is 16 gallons per hour. The aircraft had been aloft for less than 3.5 hours. The calm wind range of the aircraft is approximately 600 nautical miles with VFR reserves. The airway distance for this flight is 388 nautical miles, or 320 nautical miles direct.

Investigation

FAA inspectors inspected the aircraft and attributed the power loss in both engines to fuel exhaustion. The cause of the excessive fuel consumption that led to fuel exhaustion was not determined.

Probable cause

Fuel exhaustion resulting in loss of power in both engines.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15260. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.