Casualties unknown

1998-05-03: Piper PA-28R-200 (N75306) — East Hannibal, IL

East Hannibal, IL, US

On May 3, 1998, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N75306) was involved in an aviation accident near East Hannibal, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation, and his improper in-flight planning/decision. A factor was fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot who anticipated VMC encountered IMC for most of the flight. After a 20-minute hold and a missed approach, he searched for an alternate airport but exhausted all usable fuel, leading to a forced landing with substantial damage.

Flight and Weather Conditions

The pilot reported that he believed the flight would be conducted in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) for the majority of the flight. However, he encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) for most of the flight duration.

Approach and Fuel Management

Prior to his initial approach, the pilot was held for approximately 20 minutes. The initial approach was missed, after which the pilot returned to the VOR. At that point, he recognized the need to locate an alternate airport. While searching for an alternate, he exhausted all usable fuel.

Forced Landing and Damage

A forced landing was executed in a field. During the landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, no usable fuel remained in the fuel tanks. No mechanical anomalies were discovered. There was no evidence of fuel leaks or stains, and the fuel caps were intact and serviceable.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10001. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.