Engine Power Loss Following Takeoff

Casualties unknown • Farmington, NM, US

An engine power loss occurred shortly after takeoff, resulting in a hard landing on the runway 800 feet from the departure end.

What happened

During the preflight inspection of the aircraft, the pilot confirmed that the main fuel tanks were full but failed to inspect the auxiliary tanks. During the pre-takeoff checks, the pilot glanced at the fuel selector and believed it was set to the left main fuel tank.

Shortly after takeoff, while maintaining an altitude of 150 feet, the engine lost power. The aircraft subsequently performed a very hard landing on the takeoff runway, coming to rest 800 feet from the end of the departure runway. There were no injuries reported.

The investigation

A post-accident inspection of the fuel system revealed that the right auxiliary fuel tank contained approximately 2 inches of fuel at the bottom. However, the left auxiliary fuel tank was found to be dry, as it failed to register any fuel on a dipstick.

Probable cause

The engine power loss was caused by the pilot's failure to verify the contents of the auxiliary fuel tanks and an incorrect setting of the fuel selector valve.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-07-01 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Farmington, NM?

An engine power loss occurred shortly after takeoff, resulting in a hard landing on the runway 800 feet from the departure end.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-07-01 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N4823T, at Farmington, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine power loss was caused by the pilot's failure to verify the contents of the auxiliary fuel tanks and an incorrect setting of the fuel selector valve.

Loading the flight search…