Dual engine power loss and ditching south of shoreline

Casualties unknown • Gulfport, MS, US

A flight experienced a dual engine power loss approximately three hours into the flight, resulting in an aircraft ditching in water near the coastline.

What happened

During preflight planning, the pilot calculated that the intended flight would require 67 gallons of fuel. The pilot added 20 gallons to the aircraft fuel system and estimated that there were 85 gallons of fuel on board at the time of takeoff. There was no report indicating that the airplane was topped off with fuel prior to departure.

Approximately three hours into the flight, both engines lost power while the aircraft was located about two miles south of the shoreline. The pilot subsequently ditched the airplane approximately 1-1/4 mile south of the shore.

The investigation

Following the recovery of the aircraft from the water, an examination of the fuel system was conducted. Investigators found that the fuel system remained intact during the examination. However, no fuel was found in the fuel system after the aircraft was recovered.

Probable cause

The loss of power to both engines was caused by fuel exhaustion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1996-01-07 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Gulfport, MS?

A flight experienced a dual engine power loss approximately three hours into the flight, resulting in an aircraft ditching in water near the coastline.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1996-01-07 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N424WA, at Gulfport, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of power to both engines was caused by fuel exhaustion.

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