Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's improper fuel planning which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The student pilot reported that he checked the airplane’s fuel tanks and estimated that each tank was about a quarter full, or about 6 gallons of fuel total. He then added 3 gallons of fuel to each tank. The flight instructor reported that he did not check the fuel tanks after refueling, but the student stated that they had two hours of fuel on board. The flight then departed and conducted practice maneuvers for about an hour. After completing a maneuver, the engine started to sputter and then lost power. The instructor conducted a forced landing in a field. Examination of the airplane revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine firewall and the nose wheel collapsed during the landing. Examination of the fuel tanks and lines found only residual 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# CEN13CA343