On June 25, 1997, a Piper PA-22-108 (registration N4882Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Lenox Township, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to follow the procedures and directives as listed on the placard in the aircraft resulting in fuel starvation and subsequent engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced engine power loss during low-altitude maneuvers, leading to a forced landing that resulted in a collision with a tree and terrain impact.
What happened
The aircraft was performing maneuvers at a low altitude when the engine lost power. While the pilot was executing a forced landing following the loss of power, the aircraft struck a tree and subsequently impacted the terrain.
The investigation
A post-accident examination established both aircraft control continuity and engine continuity. An inspection of the fuel system revealed that the right tank contained four gallons of fuel, while no fuel was found in the left tank. At the time of the accident, the fuel selector was set to the right tank. Investigators noted a placard in the cockpit which stated, "Right tank level flight only." No mechanical anomalies were discovered during the examination that could be linked to a pre-existing condition.