Emergency landing following engine power loss

Casualties unknown • Titusville, FL, US

An aircraft experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, resulting in an off-field emergency landing and serious injuries to the pilot.

What happened

Shortly after takeoff, the unspecified aircraft lost engine power while on approach to its destination airport. The pilot performed an off-field emergency landing short of runway 18. The pilot sustained serious injuries during the accident and was unable to recall specific flight details due to these injuries.

According to a pilot-rated passenger, fuel was not available at the departure airport prior to the flight.

The investigation

An examination of the wreckage revealed no mechanical malfunctions or component failures. Investigators inspected the fuel system and recovered approximately one pint of fuel from the right outboard fuel tank; however, no fuel was found in the remaining tanks.

Upon arriving at the scene, the local fire department reported to the FAA inspector that there was no odor of fuel present and no evidence of any fuel being spilled from the airplane.

Probable cause

The engine power loss was caused by fuel exhaustion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-02-28 Piper PA-23-160 accident near Titusville, FL?

An aircraft experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, resulting in an off-field emergency landing and serious injuries to the pilot.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-02-28 involved a Piper PA-23-160, registration N441WA, at Titusville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine power loss was caused by fuel exhaustion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20449. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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