Piper PA38-112, VH-JAM, Archerfield QLD, 21 April 1988

198100032

Summary

During the preflight inspection, the pilot dipped the fuel tanks and noted that the left tank contained 25 litres and the right tank just on 30 litres. The airrcaft was taxied out to the run-up area using fuel from the left tank. Before the run-up, the pilot switched the fuel selector lever to the right tank and left it there for the take-off and remainder of the flight. The pilot decided to finish the flight with a touch and go landing followed by a final circuit. Following the normal application of full power for takeoff, the aircraft climbed to 100-250 feet above the ground when the engine surged and lost all power. The pilot chose a football field straight ahead and made a successful touchdown. Unfortunately, he was so engrossed with missing objects and steering the aircraft that he forgot to use the brakes effectively. The aircraft ran on and struck two goal posts and a tree before coming to rest against a security fence. The two occupants exited without injury. The engine had failed due to fuel starvation when all the useable fuel from the right tank had been consumed.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198100032
Occurrence date 21/04/1988
Location Archerfield
Report release date 17/08/1988
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 206
Registration VH-CJK
Serial number 38-82A0078
Operation type Private
Departure point Archerfield QLD
Destination Archerfield QLD
Damage Substantial