Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot reported that the airplane experienced a loss of engine power during takeoff approximately 50 to 75 feet above ground level. The pilot elected to perform a forced landing to a field. During the landing the airplane nosed over and sustained substantial damage to the airplane's wings and vertical fin. First responders to the accident site reported that they did not notice any fuel draining from the airplane. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no fuel in the right wing tank and approximately 5 gallons of fuel in the left wing tank. The examination did not reveal any mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN11LA063