N8207Z

Substantial
Minor

Piper PA-32-301TS/N: 32-8124031

Accident Details

Date
Friday, June 22, 2007
NTSB Number
DEN07CA105
Location
Santa Fe, NM
Event ID
20070727X01030
Coordinates
35.616664, -106.086112
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
2
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's inadequate preflight planning and preparation, and improper in-flight decisions resulting in fuel exhaustion. A factor was the unsuitable terrain for landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N8207Z
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
32-8124031
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1981
Model / ICAO
PA-32-301TPA32
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
PCAD LLC
Address
7756 E MONTEBELLO AVE
Status
Deregistered
City
SCOTTSDALE
State / Zip Code
AZ 85250-6164
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported being approximately 7,200 feet, 3 miles south of the airport, when the airplane's engine began to run rough. The pilot turned back toward the airport and then determined that he would not be able to reach it. About that time, the engine "stopped completely." The pilot decided to attempt a forced landing to a hilly pasture. During the forced landing the airplane impacted the rough terrain, the landing gear sheared off, and the right wing bent upward approximately 3 feet inboard of the tip. Inspectors at the scene reported the right wing was also broken aft at the wing root. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries. An examination of the airplane showed the left wing fuel tank empty. The right wing fuel tank showed some residual fuel. The airplane's fuel selector valve was positioned to the left wing fuel tank. Flight control continuity was confirmed. An examination of the engine, engine controls, and other airplane systems showed no anomalies.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# DEN07CA105