On April 18, 1996, a Piper J-3 (registration N6510H) was involved in an aviation accident near Raymond, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the pilot to ensure that the fuel selector was properly positioned to the full 'on' position before takeoff, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation during the initial climb after takeoff; and the pilot's failure to maintain… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane departing a grass runway reached 250 feet before losing control and descending. The fuel valve was off, and the propeller showed no signs of engine power at impact.
Accident Narrative
Witnesses reported that after departing from a grass runway, the airplane climbed to an altitude of approximately 250 feet. It then departed controlled flight and descended into the terrain. The wind at the time was reported as coming from 280 degrees at 17 knots, with gusts to 24 knots.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel valve was in the off position. The cockpit control lever for the fuel valve was found approximately three-quarters of an inch aft of the on position. The aircraft's owner stated that the fuel valve handle was always left in the on position.
Inspection of the propeller showed no evidence of engine power at the time of impact. When the engine was disassembled, no preimpact abnormalities were noted.
What happened in the 18 Apr 1996 Piper J-3 accident near Raymond, NE?
An airplane departing a grass runway reached 250 feet before losing control and descending. The fuel valve was off, and the propeller showed no signs of engine power at impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Apr 1996 involved a Piper J-3, registration N6510H, at Raymond, NE.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
failure of the pilot to ensure that the fuel selector was properly positioned to the full 'on' position before takeoff, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation during the initial climb after takeoff; and the pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft. The gusty wind condition was a…
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