Forced landing in stone quarry following engine power loss

Casualties unknown • Avoca, PA, US

A pilot performed a forced landing in a stone quarry after the engine lost total power approximately two miles from the destination airport.

What happened

While on approach to the destination airport, approach control contacted the pilot to inquire about remaining fuel levels. The pilot reported that there was no reserve fuel available. In response, the air traffic controller advised the pilot of an alternate airport that was located closer than the intended destination. Despite this advice, the pilot chose to continue toward the planned destination.

Approximately two miles from the destination airport, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing in a stone quarry. The pilot was not injured during the event.

The investigation

An FAA inspector conducted an inspection of the aircraft's fuel tanks. The investigation revealed that approximately one quart of fuel remained in the tanks at the time of the incident.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by fuel exhaustion resulting from weather conditions at the conclusion of a cross-country flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-07-23 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Avoca, PA?

A pilot performed a forced landing in a stone quarry after the engine lost total power approximately two miles from the destination airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-07-23 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N1613P, at Avoca, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by fuel exhaustion resulting from weather conditions at the conclusion of a cross-country flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04071. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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