On May 18, 1997, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N383AV) was involved in an aviation accident near Savoy, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper preflight planning/preparation and her not maintaining airspeed. Factors were fuel exhaustion and entering an inadvertent stall. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced engine power loss during initial climb after a touch-and-go landing, leading to a loss of controlled flight and collision with terrain. Examination revealed only unusable fuel remaining in both tanks.
Accident
During the initial climb following a touch-and-go landing, the airplane's engine lost power. The aircraft subsequently departed from controlled flight and collided with terrain.
Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane determined that both fuel tanks contained only unusable fuel. No usable fuel was available in either tank.
Additional Information
The operator reported that the airplane was carrying a maximum of 20 gallons of aviation fuel at the time of departure. According to the aircraft's Hobbs meter, the airplane had been operated for 2.8 hours. The operator stated that based on their experience with this airplane in all flight conditions, the average fuel consumption was 6.5 gallons per hour.
What happened in the 18 May 1997 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Savoy, IL?
An airplane experienced engine power loss during initial climb after a touch-and-go landing, leading to a loss of controlled flight and collision with terrain. Examination revealed only unusable fuel remaining in both tanks.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 May 1997 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N383AV, at Savoy, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper preflight planning/preparation and her not maintaining airspeed. Factors were fuel exhaustion and entering an inadvertent stall.
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