Casualties unknown

1998-06-01: Piper PA-30 (N7794Y) — Floyd, VA

Floyd, VA, US

On June 1, 1998, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7794Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Floyd, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper selection of fuel tank position resulting in fuel starvation of both engines. 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 reported loss of power on one engine at 10,500 feet, declined closer airports, then lost both engines and crashed 30 miles short of destination. Fuel selectors were on main tanks, which were empty.

Flight Event

During cruise flight at 10,500 feet, the pilot reported a loss of engine power on one engine and requested vectors to an airport approximately 40 miles away. The controller offered vectors to any of three airports closer to the airplane's position, but the pilot declined and repeated the initial request. The airplane subsequently lost power in both engines and crashed approximately 30 miles prior to the requested airport.

Fuel Examination

Examination of the fuel system revealed an undetermined amount of fuel in both outboard auxiliary fuel tanks. Both inboard main fuel tanks showed no evidence of fuel. In the cockpit, each fuel selector was found in the 'Main' position. The two main tanks together held a total of 60 gallons, of which 6 gallons were unusable. According to performance charts for the airplane, in cruise flight at 10,500 feet, the airplane consumed approximately 15 gallons of fuel per hour. Review of the airplane's rental and fueling records indicated that it had flown approximately 4 hours since the last fuel service and had completed at least 5 takeoffs and landings.

Propulsion Investigation

Examination of the fuel system revealed no defects. Both engines were run to rated power in a test cell and operated normally.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10332. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.