On May 19, 1988, a Hiller UH-12E (registration N573HA) operated by Siller Brothers was involved in an aviation accident near Anderson, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the flight despite knowing that fuel was unavailable at the planned refueling point and that wind conditions would increase fuel consumption, which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot ignored unfavorable wind reports and lack of refueling options at the planned stop, continuing the flight until fuel exhaustion caused an engine failure during approach.
What happened
The pilot was operating a general aviation aircraft under visual flight rules when he received critical information regarding adverse weather conditions along his route. Specifically, he was advised that unfavorable wind patterns would significantly impact his ground speed and fuel consumption rates. Additionally, the pilot learned that fuel supplies were unavailable at his intended refueling stop.
Despite these constraints, the pilot elected to continue the flight without arranging for additional fuel or altering his destination. As the aircraft approached its final destination, the pilot initiated a descent for landing. During this phase of the approach, the engine suddenly failed due to complete fuel exhaustion. The pilot attempted to execute a hard autorotative landing to mitigate the impact.
The investigation
Examination of the flight record and witness statements confirmed that the aircraft had depleted its usable fuel supply prior to touchdown. No mechanical failures were identified in the engine or fuel system components other than those resulting from the lack of fuel.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the flight despite knowing that fuel was unavailable at the planned refueling point and that wind conditions would increase fuel consumption, which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent engine failure.