What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-10-01 involved a Cessna 140, registration N76639, operated by Teen Flight, at Hastings, MI.

Fuel Exhaustion After Takeoff Leads to Forced Landing and Aircraft Damage (N76639)

On October 1, 1983, a Cessna 140 (registration N76639) operated by Teen Flight was involved in an aviation accident near Hastings, MI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During a training flight, the instructor pilot noted low fuel but proceeded with an additional takeoff. Shortly after departure, the engine lost power. Fuel transfer did not restore power, resulting in a landing on rough terrain and aircraft damage.

Flight History

The instructor pilot (CFI) was aware that the aircraft was running low on fuel. Despite this, he decided to conduct one more takeoff and landing with the student pilot. The aircraft departed for the additional circuit.

Engine Failure

As the aircraft climbed through approximately 200 feet above ground level after takeoff, the engine began to lose power. The CFI immediately assumed control of the aircraft.

Post-Failure Actions

In an attempt to restore engine power, the CFI switched the fuel selector to the left fuel tank, which indicated a quarter full. However, the engine did not restart and continued to produce insufficient power.

Landing

With the engine unable to resume operation, the CFI executed a landing on rough terrain. The aircraft sustained damage during this landing.

Investigation

The investigation determined that the aircraft was damaged during the forced landing after an engine power loss due to fuel exhaustion. The CFI's decision to proceed with an additional takeoff despite knowing the low fuel state was noted.

1983-10-01: Cessna 140 (N76639) — Teen Flight — Hastings, MI