On April 17, 1988, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N5504S) was involved in an aviation accident near Florence, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate fuel supply for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Cessna 172 experienced sudden engine failure during cross-country flight, resulting in a forced landing in a dry wash. The aircraft nosed over upon touchdown after approximately four gallons of fuel were drained from the system.
What happened
During a cross-country flight, the engine suddenly quit and then restarted before quitting completely. A forced landing was made in a dry wash where the aircraft nosed over during the landing roll. Approximately 4 gallons of fuel was drained from the fuel system. The accident occurred about 25 miles off course.
The investigation
There were no mechanical failures or malfunctions found at the time of the engine inspection. The Cessna 172 ran satisfactorily at all power settings after the accident.
Findings
The pilot failed to maintain adequate fuel supply for the flight. The fuel exhaustion resulted in the loss of engine power and subsequent forced landing.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate fuel supply for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a forced landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Apr 1988 Bellanca 8GCBC accident near Florence, AZ?
A Cessna 172 experienced sudden engine failure during cross-country flight, resulting in a forced landing in a dry wash. The aircraft nosed over upon touchdown after approximately four gallons of fuel were drained from the system.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Apr 1988 involved a Bellanca 8GCBC, registration N5504S, at Florence, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate fuel supply for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a forced landing.
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