On May 16, 2019, a Piper PA28 140 was involved in an aviation accident near Maitland, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, the total loss of engine power, and subsequent impact with a car during an emergency landing on a road. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During cruise, an engine lost power twice. The pilot switched fuel tanks and restarted, then lost power again, landing on a highway and colliding with a car. No mechanical failures were reported; fuel tanks were empty.
Sequence of Events
During cruise flight, about 10 miles from the destination airport, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot switched to the other fuel tank and successfully restarted the engine. About 6 miles out, the engine had another total loss of power. The pilot then decided to land the airplane on a highway. Just before touchdown, the airplane struck a car, spun, and impacted the road.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot added that no fuel was found in either fuel tank.
10 Dec 2025 — PIPER PA28 181 (Ameriflyers OF Texas INC)
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 May 2019 Piper PA28 140 accident near Maitland, FL?
During cruise, an engine lost power twice. The pilot switched fuel tanks and restarted, then lost power again, landing on a highway and colliding with a car. No mechanical failures were reported; fuel tanks were empty.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 May 2019 Piper PA28 140 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 May 2019 involved a Piper PA28 140, at Maitland, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's improper fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, the total loss of engine power, and subsequent impact with a car during an emergency landing on a road.
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