Primary finding
Probable cause
blockage of the vents to both wing fuel tanks, after unknown personnel failed to remove tape (protective covering) from the vents, which resulted in collapsed fuel tanks (and wing damage).
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
After landing at Hillsboro, OR, the aircraft wings were both observed to be wrinkled and collapsed in the fuel tank areas. Investigation revealed that both wing fuel vents had been covered with electrical tape; however, the source of the electrical tape was not determined.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 8, 1996, approximately 1230 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-46-350P, N58VJ, operated by DMH Inc., was observed to have damage to both wings while on the ramp at the Hillsboro airport, Hillsboro, OR. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The private pilot and four passengers were not injured. The 14 CFR 91 personal flight had departed Sun River, OR earlier in the day for Hillsboro. During landing at Hillsboro, the pilot heard a "popping" sound. After taxiing to the ramp, line service personnel noticed the wings of the aircraft were wrinkled and collapsed in the fuel tank area. Black electrical tape was later discovered over both wing fuel vents. Determination of substantial damage was not made until 7/25/96, when it was determined that the outer sections of both wings would need to be replaced. The time of the actual wing collapse and the source of the tape was not determined. -