No fatalities

Pilot Performs Precautionary and Forced Landings Following Engine Power Loss (N8262K)

Brickerville, PA, US

On August 19, 1997, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8262K) was involved in an aviation accident near Brickerville, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel starvation as a result of the pilot performing a takeoff with the fuel selector in the 'OFF' position. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced rising engine temperatures and oil pressure loss, prompting a precautionary landing. After restarting with normal indications, the engine lost all power during climb, leading to a forced landing. Investigation revealed the fuel selector was off and fuel system contained minimal fuel.

Flight Events

Shortly after departure, the pilot observed an increase in engine oil temperature and cylinder head temperature. While turning back toward the airport for landing, oil pressure was lost, followed by a partial loss of engine power. The pilot executed a precautionary landing in a field, shut down the engine, and conducted an inspection, finding no discrepancies.

Several minutes later, the pilot restarted the engine. With all engine instruments indicating within the green range, a takeoff was performed. During the initial climb, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a corn field.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel selector valve was in the 'OFF' position. Fuel lines from the lowest points of the fuel system, as well as the carburetor bowl, were observed to contain only a few drops of fuel. No evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunction was found.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Aug 1997 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Brickerville, PA?

A pilot experienced rising engine temperatures and oil pressure loss, prompting a precautionary landing. After restarting with normal indications, the engine lost all power during climb, leading to a forced landing. Investigation revealed the fuel selector was off and fuel system contained minimal fuel.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Aug 1997 Piper PA-28-181 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Aug 1997 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8262K, at Brickerville, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Fuel starvation as a result of the pilot performing a takeoff with the fuel selector in the 'OFF' position.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08730. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.