On April 7, 1993, a Beech A36 (registration N29AP) operated by White River Aero Services, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Augusta, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER FUEL MANAGEMENT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION AND ENGINE STOPPAGE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot experienced an engine failure on final approach after a 2.7-hour cross-country flight. The aircraft collided with trees and caught fire, but the pilot escaped through a rear cabin window.
Incident Summary
The private pilot was concluding a 2.7-hour cross-country flight and was on final approach when he reduced power. At that moment, the engine stopped running. Despite attempts to restart, the engine remained inoperative, leading to the airplane colliding with trees short of the airport. The subsequent ground impact ignited a fire. The pilot successfully evacuated through a rear cabin window.
Wreckage Examination
Investigators examined the wreckage and observed that the post-crash fire had completely destroyed the right wing, while the left wing showed only minor fire damage. The position of the fuel tank selector handle indicated it was set to the left tank. According to performance data for the A36 aircraft, approximately half of the total fuel capacity would have been used during the flight.
Engine Inspection
A detailed inspection of the engine revealed no signs of mechanical failure or malfunction. It was also noted that the aircraft had flown only about 70 hours since its manufacture.