On May 22, 1996, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2594B) was involved in an aviation accident near Clinton, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot lost engine power shortly after takeoff and executed a forced landing in a pasture. An FAA inspector confirmed less than one gallon of fuel remained in the tanks.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft was approximately 60 feet above the ground during the initial climb phase when it experienced a sudden loss of engine power. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot executed a forced landing in a horse pasture located beyond the departure end of the runway.
The investigation
An FAA Inspector who witnessed the accident from the departure airport conducted an on-scene investigation. Upon examining the aircraft, the inspector determined that there was less than 1 gallon of fuel remaining in either fuel tank.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this incident was fuel exhaustion. The insufficient fuel supply led directly to the loss of engine power during a critical phase of flight.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.
What happened in the 22 May 1996 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Clinton, MD?
The pilot lost engine power shortly after takeoff and executed a forced landing in a pasture. An FAA inspector confirmed less than one gallon of fuel remained in the tanks.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 May 1996 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2594B, at Clinton, MD.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.
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