On September 9, 1994, a Beech D18S (registration N666S) was involved in an aviation accident near MT Pleasant, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to properly select the fuel tank, which resulted in fuel starvation and a subsequent loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a complete loss of power on both engines while cruising. Investigation revealed the pilot had selected the fuel selector in the wrong position, leading to fuel starvation and a subsequent forced landing in a field.
What happened
During cruise flight, the aircraft experienced a simultaneous loss of power on both engines. The pilot-in-command attempted to restore engine power but was unsuccessful. Consequently, the pilot executed a forced landing in an open field.
The investigation
Following the accident, the pilot determined that the fuel selector had been positioned incorrectly. This error resulted in the engines receiving no fuel supply.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the incident was fuel starvation caused by the pilot selecting the wrong position on the fuel selector valve.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to properly select the fuel tank, which resulted in fuel starvation and a subsequent loss of engine power.
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