On June 14, 1988, a Lake LA-4-200 (registration N6110V) was involved in an aviation accident near Wantagh, NY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After repairs, a pilot on a VFR flight experienced engine power loss. Emergency landing between sand dunes caused structural damage. Investigation revealed no fuel onboard.
Incident Overview
A pilot was returning to Republic Airport following repairs on the aircraft. During the visual flight rules (VFR) flight, the pilot reported a sudden loss of engine power. He subsequently prepared for an emergency landing with the landing gear retracted. The aircraft touched down between two sand dunes, resulting in structural damage.
Post-Accident Findings
An investigation conducted after the accident determined that the aircraft had no fuel onboard at the time of the incident. The pilot stated that the fuel gauge indicated a full tank when the power loss occurred, approximately one hour into the flight.
Summary
The incident highlights a discrepancy between the fuel gauge reading and the actual fuel quantity. No other causal factors were identified in the source material.