Casualties unknown

2004-06-11: Piper PA-38-112 (N2579N) — Robert R. Moore — Jerome, ID

Jerome, ID, US

On June 11, 2004, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2579N) operated by Robert R. Moore was involved in an aviation accident near Jerome, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to refuel the airplane resulting in fuel exhaustion and the loss of power during descent for landing. Factors contributing to the accident were the soft terrain and the forced landing site. 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 who made several flights without refueling lost track of time, leading to fuel exhaustion. The engine stopped after switching tanks, forcing a landing in a potato field where the airplane nosed over.

Accident Summary

The pilot of an airplane reported that he had flown several times on the day of the accident without adding fuel between flights. For the final trip, he estimated there were about 1.5 hours of fuel remaining and departed planning to fly for 30 minutes.

Pilot Report

During the flight, the pilot lost track of time. When he realized fuel was low, he decided to return to the departure airport. Approximately three miles south of the airport, fuel pressure dropped. The pilot switched the fuel selector to the left tank, and the engine ran for roughly 20 seconds before stopping.

Forced Landing and Outcome

The pilot executed a forced landing in a potato field. During the landing roll, the nose wheel dug into soft dirt, causing the airplane to nose over.

Probable Cause

The investigation did not state a probable cause for the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040825X01283. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.