Casualties unknown

1999-07-03: Piper PA-31-350 (N3528Y) — Salmon Air, Inc. — Garden Valley, ID

Garden Valley, ID, US

On July 3, 1999, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N3528Y) operated by Salmon Air, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Garden Valley, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion because the pilot failed to refuel the airplane. A ditch in the landing area was a contributing factor in the accident. 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 experienced left engine surge and low fuel pressure, secured the engine, and executed a forced landing. During the landing roll, the aircraft hit a ditch, collapsing the nose gear. Post-accident inspection found no fuel in tanks and no system breach.

Accident Description

During cruise flight, the low fuel pressure lights illuminated and the left engine began to surge. The pilot selected cross-feed, after which the engine operated normally. Three to four minutes later, the left engine surged again. With the right engine still running, the pilot secured the left engine and performed a forced landing in an open field.

Landing and Damage

During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with a ditch, causing the nose gear to collapse. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.

Post-Accident Inspection

An FAA inspector examined the aircraft after the accident. The inspector reported no evidence of fuel in the aircraft's fuel tanks. The fuel system was not breached, and there was no indication of a preexisting fuel leak.

Pilot Statement

In a written statement, the pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19362. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.