Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing Following Fuel Exhaustion (N665M)

Xenia, OH, US

On May 1, 1993, a Beech E18S (registration N665M) operated by Skydive Greene CO Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Xenia, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, both engines lost power. The pilot attempted to restart by selecting different fuel tanks but failed, resulting in a wheels-up forced landing in a field. Post-accident examination revealed about 5 gallons total in forward tanks, with the other four tanks empty. The pilot admitted to losing track of flights and not visually checking fuel, stating he ran out of fuel.

Accident Overview

Shortly after takeoff, both engines lost power. The pilot reported that he selected different fuel tanks but could not restart the engines. He subsequently made a wheels-up forced landing in a field below his flight path.

Preflight and Fuel Status

The pilot stated that he performed a preflight inspection and observed 4.1 gallons in both the front left and right main fuel tanks. However, examination of the airplane after the accident revealed a combined total of about 5 gallons in the forward left and right tanks. The other four tanks were empty.

Pilot Actions and Statements

The pilot stated that he had lost track of the flights flown that day and did not visually check the fuel. He also stated that he "ran the airplane out of fuel."

Additional Information

According to Beech, all fuel in the airplane is usable except for a combined 6 gallons in the left and right forward tanks.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12296. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.