Casualties unknown

1992-10-11: Piper PA-38-112 (N24563) — Loranger Aviation — Spokane, WA

Spokane, WA, US

On October 11, 1992, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N24563) operated by Loranger Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Spokane, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot's incorrect calculation of remaining fuel. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A solo pilot miscalculated fuel, causing both tanks to exhaust before landing. After avoiding a fence, the airplane stalled and struck runway approach lights.

Incident Overview

During a solo cross-country flight, the pilot reported that before departing for the return leg, he incorrectly calculated the remaining fuel on board and did not refuel the airplane. Approximately ten miles from the destination airport, the left fuel tank became exhausted. The pilot switched to the right fuel tank, which also ran out of fuel about two miles from the airport.

Attempted Landing

The pilot attempted an approach to Runway 21L, then switched to Runway 21R in an effort to land on the overrun. At the end of the overrun, an airport boundary fence was present. To avoid striking the fence, the pilot had to pull the airplane up and over it.

Stall and Impact

During the maneuver to clear the fence, the airplane stalled and dropped to the ground, striking the runway approach lights.

Probable cause

Pilot's incorrect calculation of remaining fuel

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15964. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.