On February 21, 1998, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N8648L) operated by John Turley was involved in an aviation accident near Perry Foley, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loose (or missing) carburetor drain plug and fuel line, due to an inadequate maintenance/annual inspection, which resulted in a fuel leak, fuel exhaustion, loss of engine power, and a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise flight, an airplane experienced engine power loss. The pilot executed an emergency landing on a dirt road, colliding with trees. Investigation found no fuel and fuel system anomalies.
Incident Summary
An airplane lost engine power while in cruise flight. The pilot initiated an emergency landing on a dirt road. During the landing, the aircraft collided with trees and sustained damage.
Pilot Actions and Post-Accident Observations
According to statements from an FAA inspector and the pilot, no fuel was found remaining in the airplane. The pilot noted that the aircraft should have had adequate fuel to reach its destination with reserves. The FAA inspector reported that the fuel tank did not rupture and contained only residual fuel.
Inspection Findings
The FAA inspector observed that the carburetor bowl drain plug was missing. Additionally, the fuel line running from the fuel tank to the firewall shutoff valve was loose and leaking. The airplane had recently undergone an annual inspection after a period of extended storage.
What happened in the 21 Feb 1998 Piper PA-25-235 accident near Perry Foley, FL?
During cruise flight, an airplane experienced engine power loss. The pilot executed an emergency landing on a dirt road, colliding with trees. Investigation found no fuel and fuel system anomalies.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Feb 1998 Piper PA-25-235 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Feb 1998 involved a Piper PA-25-235, registration N8648L, operated by John Turley, at Perry Foley, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
a loose (or missing) carburetor drain plug and fuel line, due to an inadequate maintenance/annual inspection, which resulted in a fuel leak, fuel exhaustion, loss of engine power, and a forced landing. The obstructions (trees in the emergency landing area) were a related factor.
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