On January 13, 1995, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N7144Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Burlington, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper pre-flight inspection, in that he failed to visually confirm the fuel quantity prior to departure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot, relying solely on fuel gauges without visual inspection, experienced a right engine failure on approach. During a forced landing to a highway, the left engine failed, and the aircraft struck transmission lines, crashing short of the road. No residual fuel was found.
Flight Background
The pilot departed Burlington on the previous day for a round trip flight to Columbus, Ohio. Before departure, the pilot was informed that the aircraft had been operated for two-tenths of an hour after being refueled. The pilot checked the fuel gauges, which indicated levels between three-quarters and full. However, the pilot did not visually inspect the fuel tanks to verify the actual quantity of fuel.
Engine Failure and Emergency Landing
During the approach to Burlington, the right engine stopped producing power. The pilot decided to conduct a forced landing to a highway. While on the base leg of the approach to the emergency landing site, the left engine also stopped producing power. The aircraft subsequently struck transmission lines and crashed just short of the highway.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, investigators examined the wreckage and the surrounding area. No residual fuel was found in the wreckage or on the ground where the aircraft came to rest.