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Casualties unknown

Pilot Departs Despite Low Fuel Remark, Engine Fails During Return Flight (N7463A)

Elk River, MN, US

On November 17, 1992, a Cessna 172 (registration N7463A) operated by Wallace D. Pederson was involved in an aviation accident near Elk River, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO REFUEL THE AIRPLANE BEFORE THE FLIGHT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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

After an annual inspection, a pilot experienced an engine power loss during a return flight. The airplane struck trees and crashed next to a highway during a forced landing. Investigators found minimal fuel in tanks and components.

Event Summary

A pilot was returning to his home base after having an annual inspection performed on his airplane when he experienced a loss of engine power. During the attempted forced landing, the airplane struck trees and crashed next to a county highway.

Fuel Examination

Investigators found approximately one teaspoon of fuel in the right tank, no fuel in the left tank, approximately two ounces of fuel in the firewall strainer, and approximately one ounce in the carburetor bowl.

Pilot's Pre-Departure Comment

Before departing the airport, the pilot remarked that he was low on fuel and needed to get some. A worker went to get the fuel truck, but the pilot taxied out for takeoff and departed the airport as he returned with the truck.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Nov 1992 Cessna 172 accident near Elk River, MN?

After an annual inspection, a pilot experienced an engine power loss during a return flight. The airplane struck trees and crashed next to a highway during a forced landing. Investigators found minimal fuel in tanks and components.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Nov 1992 involved a Cessna 172, registration N7463A, operated by Wallace D. Pederson, at Elk River, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO REFUEL THE AIRPLANE BEFORE THE FLIGHT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16019. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.