Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA19CA272

Maitland, FL, USA

Aircraft #1

N6753W

Piper PA28

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during cruise flight, about 10 miles from the destination airport, the engine lost all power. He switched to the other fuel tank and successfully restarted the engine. About 6 miles from the airport, the engine lost power again. The pilot then decided to land the airplane on a highway, but just before touchdown, the airplane struck a car, spun, and then impacted the road. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. 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 tank.

Factual Information

The pilot reported that, during cruise flight, about 10 miles from his destination airport, the engine had a total loss of power. He switched to the other fuel tank and successfully restarted the engine. About 6 miles out, the engine had another total loss of power. He then decided to land the airplane on a highway, but just before touchdown, the airplane struck a car, spun, and impacted the road. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. 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 both tanks.

Probable Cause and Findings

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.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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