On October 6, 1982, a Cessna 172N (registration N737LJ) operated by Harmon, W. Charles was involved in an aviation accident near Albany, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to carry sufficient fuel for the flight, which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
The pilot of N737LJ departed with insufficient fuel, resulting in engine failure two hours into a cross-country trip and an emergency landing in a field.
What happened
The pilot of N737LJ initiated a cross-country business flight carrying less than full fuel tanks. Approximately two hours after departure, the aircraft's engine ceased operation. The pilot executed an emergency landing in an open field, where the aircraft subsequently collided with trees located at the edge of the clearing.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft's fuel systems revealed that there was insufficient fuel remaining to sustain engine operation. This finding confirmed that the power loss was not caused by mechanical failure but by a lack of fuel supply.
Findings
The primary factor leading to this accident was fuel exhaustion. The decision to depart with inadequate fuel reserves directly resulted in the inability to maintain engine power, forcing an off-airport landing. No other contributing factors were identified beyond the initial fuel state.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to carry sufficient fuel for the flight, which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent loss of engine power.
What happened in the 6 Oct 1982 Cessna 172N accident near Albany, GA?
The pilot of N737LJ departed with insufficient fuel, resulting in engine failure two hours into a cross-country trip and an emergency landing in a field.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Oct 1982 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N737LJ, operated by Harmon, W. Charles, at Albany, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to carry sufficient fuel for the flight, which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent loss of engine power.
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