On October 2, 2001, a Piper PA-12 (registration N2528M) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashland, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight planning, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power while en route to refuel and struck trees during a forced landing. The pilot attributed the event to fuel exhaustion due to headwinds and higher rpm.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while en route to refuel, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The ensuing forced landing resulted in impact with trees.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the airplane's fuel quantity gauges indicated that the right fuel tank was empty and the left tank was close to half full. The pilot believed this fuel quantity should have been sufficient to reach the destination. However, the pilot stated that due to headwinds and the use of higher engine rpm, the airplane ran out of fuel.
Examination Findings
An examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunctions. Both fuel tanks remained intact and no fuel spill was detected. Approximately half a gallon of fuel was observed in the airplane's fuel system. Additionally, the fuel line connecting the airframe fuel filter to the carburetor was removed and contained only a few drops of fuel.