Casualties unknown

1998-06-17: Piper PA-25-260 (N8531L) — Douglas, WY

Douglas, WY, US

On June 17, 1998, a Piper PA-25-260 (registration N8531L) was involved in an aviation accident near Douglas, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate judgement in attempting to takeoff from unsuitable rough terrain. 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

During a ferry flight, an aircraft suffered fuel exhaustion 20 miles from its planned refueling stop. The pilot landed in a field, obtained fuel, then attempted takeoff from unsuitable terrain, resulting in wing drag and a re-landing.

Event

A ferry flight was in progress when, approximately 20 miles from the airport where refueling was scheduled, the aircraft's engine lost all power. The power loss was due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot executed a landing in a field.

Subsequent Actions

After landing, the pilot left the aircraft and hitchhiked to the nearby airport. There, he purchased 15 gallons of fuel and returned to the aircraft. The fuel was added to the aircraft's tanks.

Attempted Takeoff and Outcome

With the fuel onboard, the pilot attempted to take off from the field where he had landed. The terrain was unsuitable for takeoff. During the attempt, the aircraft became airborne to an estimated height of about 4 feet. At that altitude, both wings dragged along the terrain. The pilot then aborted the takeoff, re-landed, and brought the aircraft to a stop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10316. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.