Primary finding
Probable cause
Loss of engine power following fuel starvation caused by improper tank selection by the pilot. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During initial climb the engine began 'running erratic.' the pilot performed the power loss procedures and initiated a turn back toward the airport. The airplane struck trees and came to rest inverted with structural damage to the left wing. The fuel selector was positioned on the right tank which contained no fuel. The left tank contained 16 gallons.
Source record
Factual narrative
On August 22, 1994, at 2230 central daylight time, a Piper PA-28R-201, N94AA, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Tulsa, Oklahoma. The airline transport rated pilot received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the positioning flight. The Pilot/Operator report stated that the aircraft showed fuel in the right tank during the preflight. During the initial climbing turn the engine was running "erratic." The pilot switched fuel tanks and continued the emergency procedures. The airplane struck trees and subsequently came to rest inverted on a heading of north. The left wing was substantially damaged. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane and found no fuel in the right wing. The fuel selector was on the right tank. Approximately 16 gallons of fuel was found in the left tank. -