Casualties unknown

Total Loss of Engine Power on Final Approach Leads to Landing Short of Runway (N4045B)

Plainview, TX, US

On March 20, 1993, a Bellanca 17-30A (registration N4045B) operated by Mccann, Michael J. was involved in an aviation accident near Plainview, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S THE IMPROPER FLARE PRIOR TO TOUCHDOWN. FACTORS WERE THE FUEL STARVATION POWER LOSS AND IMPROPER POSITIONING OF THE FUEL SELECTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power on final approach. It landed short of the runway; the landing gear collapsed. No mechanical malfunctions were found. Fuel was absent in the lines; the right tank held 1.5 gallons and the left tank was full.

Event Description

During the final approach phase of flight, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot subsequently landed the airplane short of the runway. At the time of landing, the landing gear was extended and the flaps were fully deployed. During the landing roll, the airplane's landing gear collapsed.

Flight and Fuel Details

The airplane had been flown for approximately 2 hours using fuel from the right tank, after which the pilot switched tanks. An FAA inspector reported that the right tank contained 1.5 gallons of fuel, while the left tank was full. No fuel was found in the fuel lines or associated systems leading to the engine.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident examination revealed no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane or its systems. The lack of fuel in the engine fuel system, combined with the fuel distribution between the tanks, was noted in the investigation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Mar 1993 Bellanca 17-30A accident near Plainview, TX?

An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power on final approach. It landed short of the runway; the landing gear collapsed. No mechanical malfunctions were found. Fuel was absent in the lines; the right tank held 1.5 gallons and the left tank was full.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Mar 1993 involved a Bellanca 17-30A, registration N4045B, operated by Mccann, Michael J., at Plainview, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S THE IMPROPER FLARE PRIOR TO TOUCHDOWN. FACTORS WERE THE FUEL STARVATION POWER LOSS AND IMPROPER POSITIONING OF THE FUEL SELECTOR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11986. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.