On July 1, 1995, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N8399T) was involved in an aviation accident near Carmel Valley, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: fuel starvation due to the pilot's inadequate preflight preparation in that he failed to position the fuel selector to a tank known to contain fuel. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During initial climb on a short flight, a pilot perceived engine power loss and attempted to return, but struck power lines. Investigation found minimal fuel in tanks and selector between tanks.
Incident Overview
An aircraft experienced a perceived loss of engine power shortly after takeoff during the initial climb phase. The flight was intended to be a 10-mile journey to another airport. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft to return to the departure airport but was unable to maintain sufficient altitude to reach the runway. While turning towards the airport, the aircraft struck power lines.
Fuel Examination
Emergency response personnel reported that the right wing contained no fuel, while the left tank contained very little fuel. A subsequent examination by an FAA inspector revealed that the right wing fuel tank held less than 1 gallon, and the left tank contained approximately 5 gallons. The fuel selector was found positioned between the left and right tanks. The inspector also noted that no fuel was available at the Carmel Valley Airport.
What happened in the 1 Jul 1995 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Carmel Valley, CA?
During initial climb on a short flight, a pilot perceived engine power loss and attempted to return, but struck power lines. Investigation found minimal fuel in tanks and selector between tanks.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Jul 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N8399T, at Carmel Valley, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
fuel starvation due to the pilot's inadequate preflight preparation in that he failed to position the fuel selector to a tank known to contain fuel.
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