On February 2, 1987, a Cessna 152C (registration N757TZ) operated by Newport Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Washington, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A student pilot conducting a solo cross-country flight from Newport, Rhode Island, experienced engine power loss over Washington, Connecticut. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the forced landing after fuel tanks were found empty and nearly depleted.
What happened
The flight departed Newport State Airport in Newport, Rhode Island, for a student solo cross-country trip en route to Waterbury, Connecticut. While the aircraft was operating over Washington, Connecticut, it began losing revolutions per minute (RPMs) and altitude. The pilot attempted a forced landing, during which the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Findings
A post-accident inspection of the fuel tanks revealed that the right tank was empty and the left tank contained approximately one-eighth of a gallon remaining. This condition indicates fuel exhaustion as the primary factor in the loss of engine power.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion.
What happened in the 2 Feb 1987 Cessna 152C accident near Washington, CT?
A student pilot conducting a solo cross-country flight from Newport, Rhode Island, experienced engine power loss over Washington, Connecticut. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the forced landing after fuel tanks were found empty and nearly depleted.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Feb 1987 involved a Cessna 152C, registration N757TZ, operated by Newport Airways, at Washington, CT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion.
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