Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of maintenance personnel's failure to tighten a fuel line fitting.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, he was picking up the airplane following an engine overhaul. About 20 minutes into the flight home, the engine went to idle. The pilot set up for best glide and prepared for an emergency landing into a field. During the landing roll the airplane sustained substantial damage. During the visual examination of the engine, the lower fitting of the fuel supply line from the fuel injector servo to the fuel flow divider was observed loose. The "B" nut was marked and then tightened; the number of flats on the nut were counted and the nut was turned 8 flats before it was secure and tight. The loose "B" nut would have interfered with the fuel supply, resulting in a loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for MIA08LA169 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 4, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Oxford, Mississippi
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper Aircraft PA-32R-301
- N-number
- N532MJ
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.