On November 24, 2002, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N2937M) was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Paula, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to follow the checklist and switch the fuel selector to the fullest tank for landing, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An airplane lost engine power on final approach, executed a forced landing on a road, and collided with an automobile. Post-accident inspection revealed fuel distribution and selector position.
Incident
The airplane experienced a loss of engine power while on final approach to land at its destination airport. The pilot performed a forced landing on a road, during which the airplane collided with an automobile.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the fuel system revealed approximately 5 to 6 gallons of fuel in the left tank and about 1.5 gallons in the right tank. The fuel selector was found positioned to the right tank. The airplane's operating handbook specifies that during approach and landing, the fuel selector must be checked to ensure it is positioned on the fullest tank.
What happened in the 24 Nov 2002 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Santa Paula, CA?
An airplane lost engine power on final approach, executed a forced landing on a road, and collided with an automobile. Post-accident inspection revealed fuel distribution and selector position.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Nov 2002 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N2937M, at Santa Paula, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to follow the checklist and switch the fuel selector to the fullest tank for landing, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of engine power.
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