On October 15, 1992, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2386L) operated by Beverly Flight Center, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Newburyport, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INACCURATE FUEL CONSUMPTION CALCULATIONS AND IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING, RESULTING IN FUEL EXHAUSTION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise, a pilot observed a low fuel quantity indication, declared an emergency, and requested vectors. The engine quit before landing, forcing a highway landing where the left wing struck a road sign. Investigation found less than one pint of fuel in each sump.
Incident Overview
While in cruise flight, the pilot observed a low fuel quantity indication aboard the aircraft. In response, the pilot declared an emergency and requested radar vectors to land at an airport. However, before reaching the intended airport, the engine ceased operating.
Forced Landing
With the engine inoperative, the pilot executed a forced landing onto a highway. During the landing roll, the left wing of the airplane struck a road sign. The aircraft came to rest on the highway.
Post-Incident Examination
An examination of the airplane conducted by an FAA inspector revealed that each fuel sump contained less than one pint of fuel. No other anomalies were reported.