N3166W

Substantial
None

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-301S/N: 301-0552

Accident Details

Date
Thursday, May 3, 2012
NTSB Number
CEN12CA274
Location
Cedar Bluffs, NE
Event ID
20120504X62522
Coordinates
41.395558, -96.598521
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N3166W
Make
AIR TRACTOR INC
Serial Number
301-0552
Year Built
1984
Model / ICAO
AT-301

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
SALE REPORTED
Address
NONE
Status
Deregistered
City
XXX
State / Zip Code
OK 73125
Country
United States

Analysis

While conducting an aerial application flight, the pilot noticed that the fuel gauge displayed a low quantity. While attempting to return to an airstrip, the engine stopped producing power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a cornfield. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. In a statement provided by the pilot to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the pilot said that he ran out of fuel. In addition, a certified airframe and powerplant mechanic examined the airplane after the accident and confirmed fuel exhaustion.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN12CA274