On April 19, 1990, a Cessna 177B (registration N30962) operated by Anderson, Kaye F. was involved in an aviation accident near North Captiva, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION, DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL, AND FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHICH RESULTED IN AN INADVERTENT STALL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced engine power loss after a steep climb following takeoff. Despite momentary restoration, the aircraft struck the water. Investigation revealed no record of refueling after an initial 40-gallon service.
Accident Sequence
After takeoff, the aircraft entered a steep climb. The engine then lost power while the aircraft was at an estimated altitude of 200 to 300 feet above the water. The pilot executed an immediate left turn, followed by a nose-down descent. At approximately 100 feet above the water, engine power was restored, but the aircraft collided with the water surface before the descent could be arrested.
Rescue and Initial Observations
Personnel who attempted to rescue the occupants immediately after the accident did not observe any oil slick or fuel on the water. Subsequent examination of the aircraft's fuel tanks found only salt water present.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed that the aircraft had been serviced with approximately 40 gallons of fuel on April 10, 1990. Following that service, the aircraft was flown for about 3.8 hours before the accident, with no record of any further refueling. Estimated fuel consumption for the engine was about 10 to 11 gallons per hour at 65% to 75% power.