Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s improper fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a total loss of engine power during descent.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The private pilot departed with an estimated 5 gallons of fuel, and had begun his descent to his destination airport, when all engine power was lost. He established best glide speed, and made a forced landing to an open stretch of road. The airplane touchdown hard, spun 180 degrees, and came to rest in a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board, investigator-in-charge on June 15, the pilot stated there was very little fuel found in the fuel tanks during recovery of the wreckage, and he believes he may have run out of fuel.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# ANC12CA050