On April 17, 2011, a PIPER PA-28-161 was involved in an aviation accident near San Angelo, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel starvation, as the right fuel tank was empty and the left tank contained fuel, leading to loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A cross-country flight experienced engine power loss during the second leg, resulting in a forced landing that damaged the right flap and wing spar. The FAA attributed the power loss to fuel starvation, with the right fuel tank empty.
Accident Overview
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the accident pilot reported that the flight experienced a loss of engine power during the second leg of a cross-country flight. The pilot elected to perform a forced landing to a field. During the forced landing, the airplane's right flap was damaged and the right wing spar was bent.
Cause of Power Loss
The FAA inspector attributed the loss of engine power to fuel starvation. The left fuel tank had 17 gallons of fuel, and the right tank was empty. The inspector confirmed that there were no mechanical anomalies or failures with the airplane, engine, or related systems prior to the accident.
Probable cause
Fuel starvation, as the right fuel tank was empty and the left tank contained fuel, leading to loss of engine power.
What happened in the 17 Apr 2011 PIPER PA-28-161 accident near San Angelo, TX?
A cross-country flight experienced engine power loss during the second leg, resulting in a forced landing that damaged the right flap and wing spar. The FAA attributed the power loss to fuel starvation, with the right fuel tank empty.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Apr 2011 PIPER PA-28-161 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Apr 2011 involved a PIPER PA-28-161, at San Angelo, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fuel starvation, as the right fuel tank was empty and the left tank contained fuel, leading to loss of engine power.
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