On September 1, 1995, a Grumman AA-5 (registration N9528L) operated by John Conrad was involved in an aviation accident near Saint James, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's operation of the airplane with an inoperative fuel gage and the leaking fuel line fitting, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, loss of engine power, and a forced landing. The inoperative fuel gage was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported a non-functional left fuel gage and full tanks before departure. During a go-around, the engine lost power at about 50 feet. Examination revealed no usable fuel in tanks, empty fuel lines, and a leaking fitting.
Event Summary
A pilot reported that the left fuel gage was not working prior to departure. Both fuel tanks were full at that time. During the 2.7-hour flight, the pilot did not lean the engine. The pilot initiated a go-around during an attempted landing. When the airplane was at an altitude of about 50 feet, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to land the airplane on the remaining runway. The airplane departed the runway at the departure end and slid into the trees.
Examination Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed no usable fuel remained in the fuel tanks and the fuel lines were empty. Approximately 3/8 inch of fuel remained in the carburetor bowl. A fuel line fitting was leaking near the fuel pump.
What happened in the 1 Sept 1995 Grumman AA-5 accident near Saint James, MI?
A pilot reported a non-functional left fuel gage and full tanks before departure. During a go-around, the engine lost power at about 50 feet. Examination revealed no usable fuel in tanks, empty fuel lines, and a leaking fitting.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Sept 1995 involved a Grumman AA-5, registration N9528L, operated by John Conrad, at Saint James, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's operation of the airplane with an inoperative fuel gage and the leaking fuel line fitting, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, loss of engine power, and a forced landing. The inoperative fuel gage was a related factor.
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