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Solo Student Pilot Experiences Fuel Exhaustion, Nose Over During Precautionary Landing (N4812B)

Lakeville, MN, US

On May 28, 1988, a Cessna 152 (registration N4812B) was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeville, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion resulting in a power failure; inconsistent supervision and training by the pilot's CFI. 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 cross-country flight experienced a power failure due to fuel exhaustion five miles short of the destination, resulting in substantial damage during a precautionary landing. No injuries were reported.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting the fourth leg of a solo cross-country flight covering a total distance of 314 nautical miles. The aircraft departed with full fuel, but no fuel was added during any of the trip's legs. Approximately five miles short of the final destination, the aircraft experienced a power failure attributed to fuel exhaustion.

Precautionary Landing and Damage

In response to the power loss, the pilot executed a precautionary landing. During this landing, the aircraft nosed over, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported no injuries in the aftermath of the occurrence.

Investigation Findings

An investigation into the incident revealed that the student pilot had received inconsistent supervision and training from his certified flight instructor (CFI).

Probable cause

Fuel exhaustion resulting in a power failure; inconsistent supervision and training by the pilot's CFI.
Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Related events

Same aircraft family

All Cessna 152 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 May 1988 Cessna 152 accident near Lakeville, MN?

A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight experienced a power failure due to fuel exhaustion five miles short of the destination, resulting in substantial damage during a precautionary landing. No injuries were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 May 1988 Cessna 152 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 May 1988 involved a Cessna 152, registration N4812B, at Lakeville, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Fuel exhaustion resulting in a power failure; inconsistent supervision and training by the pilot's CFI.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25659. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.