On May 12, 1991, a Cessna 185F (registration N1745R) operated by George Grinnall was involved in an aviation accident near Sanford, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PROCEDURE BY NOT PLACING THE FUEL SELECTOR ON THE TANK WITH THE MOST FUEL, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION AND A FORCED LANDING IN TREES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot conducting a fuel check during flight experienced an engine failure and executed a forced landing into trees. Post-accident examination revealed fuel imbalance.
Summary
A pilot reported that prior to departure, he filled the left fuel tank and added 10 gallons to the right fuel tank for a flight he estimated to be about 1 hour and 50 minutes in duration. Approximately 40 miles from his destination, the pilot believed the fuel gauges were reading too low. He descended and banked the airplane to the left in an attempt to check the fuel level in the right tank. Shortly thereafter, the engine quit. The pilot determined he was too low to restart the engine and elected to make a forced landing into trees.
Examination
Following the accident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the wreckage. The examination revealed approximately 18 gallons of fuel in the left tank, while the right tank was found empty.
What happened in the 12 May 1991 Cessna 185F accident near Sanford, ME?
A pilot conducting a fuel check during flight experienced an engine failure and executed a forced landing into trees. Post-accident examination revealed fuel imbalance.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 May 1991 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N1745R, operated by George Grinnall, at Sanford, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S IMPROPER PROCEDURE BY NOT PLACING THE FUEL SELECTOR ON THE TANK WITH THE MOST FUEL, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION AND A FORCED LANDING IN TREES.
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