On 13 Sep 2015, a PIPER PA 28-181 181 operated by HEDGEHOPPERS FLYING CLUB INC was involved in an aviation accident near Lexington, NE. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper fuel planning which resulted in fuel exhaustion, and loss of engine power. Additionally, the pilot's failure to maintain pitch control during the emergency landing, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot exhausted both fuel tanks before reaching destination, executed an emergency landing in a hay field, then stalled after pulling up to avoid hay bales, resulting in right wing impact and substantial damage.
Incident Overview
The pilot of an airplane reported that all fuel in both tanks was exhausted prior to reaching the intended destination. Forced to maneuver for an emergency landing, the pilot selected a hay field as the landing area.
Sequence of Events
During the descent toward the hay field, the pilot noted hay bales lining the field. After losing sight of the bales, the pilot decided to "slightly pull up" the airplane. The aircraft subsequently entered an aerodynamic stall, and the right wing impacted the ground.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.