Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing Attempt After Takeoff (N8645P)

Sequim, WA, US

On April 14, 1997, a Piper PA-24-260 (registration N8645P) was involved in an aviation accident near Sequim, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's improper fuel management, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of engine power. A factor was trees in the forced landing area. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft lost engine power about 10 minutes after takeoff. The pilot attempted a forced landing onto a road, contacting trees. Examination found left fuel tanks empty and right tanks full, with no contamination detected.

Accident Summary

Approximately 10 minutes after departure, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot attempted a forced landing onto a road, during which the aircraft contacted trees.

Examination Findings

An on-site examination of the aircraft revealed that the left wing fuel tanks were empty, while the right wing tanks were full. The right wing tanks had been fueled prior to the last departure. Fuel samples taken from the aircraft and from the fuel storage tanks at the departure airport were tested and showed no visual evidence of contamination or impurities.

Post-Accident Test

In a test conducted after the accident, the aircraft's engine was supplied with fuel drained from its own tanks. The fuel was delivered through the feed line from the tank that was found selected at the accident site. Under these conditions, the engine started, ran, and responded to throttle changes.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07826. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.