On December 1, 1996, a Piper PA-32R-301T (registration N3566X) operated by Clyde W. Crownover was involved in an aviation accident near Tusayan, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot miscalculated the fuel for the duration of the trip, resulting in fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported low fuel and engine failure before landing on a forest service road, colliding with trees. Post-accident examination found only residual fuel in the intact system.
Incident Overview
At 1009 local time, the pilot radioed the tower, stating they were inbound to the airport with a low fuel state. Shortly thereafter, the pilot reported that the engine had stopped and that they would not be able to reach the runway. The aircraft subsequently performed an off-airport landing on a forest service road, during the ground roll it collided with trees.
Pilot Statement
In a written statement provided to responding sheriff's deputies, the pilot explained that they had 'miscalculated the fuel for the duration of the trip and ran out of gas.'
Examination Findings
An examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed that it was intact and contained only residual fuel.
Probable cause
The pilot miscalculated the fuel for the duration of the trip, resulting in fuel exhaustion.
What happened in the 1 Dec 1996 Piper PA-32R-301T accident near Tusayan, AZ?
A pilot reported low fuel and engine failure before landing on a forest service road, colliding with trees. Post-accident examination found only residual fuel in the intact system.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 1 Dec 1996 involved a Piper PA-32R-301T, registration N3566X, operated by Clyde W. Crownover, at Tusayan, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot miscalculated the fuel for the duration of the trip, resulting in fuel exhaustion.
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