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Student Pilot on Solo Flight Crashes After Fuel Exhaustion Near Davis-Monthan AFB (N48406)

Tucson, AZ, US

On January 29, 1983, a Cessna 152 (registration N48406) operated by Phase One Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Tucson, AZ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on a solo training flight crashed about one mile north of Davis-Monthan AFB after running out of fuel during a go-around. The pilot had diverted due to crosswinds at Tucson International Airport.

Background

A student pilot was conducting a solo training flight. The aircraft returned to Tucson International Airport but was unable to land due to crosswinds. The pilot then diverted to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

Sequence of Events

At Davis-Monthan AFB, the pilot made several approaches and go-arounds. During a go-around, the aircraft experienced an engine failure. The aircraft subsequently crashed approximately one mile north of the base after running out of fuel.

The pilot stated that he could not land at Davis-Monthan because of crosswinds.

Weather Conditions

The wind was reported as from 170 degrees at 16 knots, gusting to 25 knots.

Engine failureFuel exhaustion & starvation

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jan 1983 Cessna 152 accident near Tucson, AZ?

A student pilot on a solo training flight crashed about one mile north of Davis-Monthan AFB after running out of fuel during a go-around. The pilot had diverted due to crosswinds at Tucson International Airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jan 1983 involved a Cessna 152, registration N48406, operated by Phase One Aviation, at Tucson, AZ.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42038. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.