Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss After Low Fuel Diversion (N6421R)

Indianapolis, IN, US

On September 18, 1997, a Piper PA-28 (registration N6421R) was involved in an aviation accident near Indianapolis, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper planning/decision and failure to refuel the airplane in a timely manner, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. A related factor was: trees in the emergency landing area. 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

While diverting due to low fuel, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot switched tanks but the engine did not restart. During a forced landing, the airplane struck trees and terrain. Postaccident examination revealed only unusable fuel and no leaks.

Incident Overview

The pilot was en route to the intended destination when he realized the fuel state was low. He decided to divert to another airport. While diverting, the airplane sustained a loss of engine power. In an attempt to restore power, the pilot switched fuel tanks, but the engine did not restart.

Forced Landing

With the engine inoperative, the pilot conducted a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane struck trees and the terrain. The aircraft came to rest at the accident site.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination of the airplane found only unusable fuel remaining in the fuel system. No fuel leaks were detected. The examination did not reveal any other anomalies or malfunctions.

Investigation Findings

The investigation determined that the flight encountered a low fuel condition, leading to the diversion. The subsequent loss of engine power occurred during the diversion. The pilot's actions to switch tanks were unsuccessful in restoring power. The forced landing resulted in contact with trees and terrain.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Sept 1997 Piper PA-28 accident near Indianapolis, IN?

While diverting due to low fuel, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot switched tanks but the engine did not restart. During a forced landing, the airplane struck trees and terrain. Postaccident examination revealed only unusable fuel and no leaks.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Sept 1997 involved a Piper PA-28, registration N6421R, at Indianapolis, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's improper planning/decision and failure to refuel the airplane in a timely manner, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. A related factor was: trees in the emergency landing area.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08818. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.