Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Due to Fuel Exhaustion Leads to Forced Landing (N97109)

Yale, MI, US

On September 8, 1995, a Cessna 182 (registration N97109) was involved in an aviation accident near Yale, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power due to an inadequate fuel supply leading to fuel exhaustion. The inadvertent stall during the forced landing was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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 one hour of flight, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot attempted a forced landing but stalled at 50 feet, impacting a soybean field. Post-accident examination confirmed empty fuel tanks and no system malfunction.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that before departure, visual and gauge readings indicated approximately ten gallons of fuel in each tank. After flying for about one hour, while entering the downwind leg, the engine sputtered and lost power.

Forced Landing Attempt

The pilot attempted to land in a field. During the approach, the airplane stalled at an altitude of approximately 50 feet. The aircraft then impacted a soybean field.

Post-Accident Findings

After the accident, the pilot examined the fuel tanks and found them empty. Examination of the wreckage revealed that both the fuel strainer and carburetor bowl were also empty. No evidence of a fuel system malfunction was reported.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Sept 1995 Cessna 182 accident near Yale, MI?

After one hour of flight, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot attempted a forced landing but stalled at 50 feet, impacting a soybean field. Post-accident examination confirmed empty fuel tanks and no system malfunction.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Sept 1995 involved a Cessna 182, registration N97109, at Yale, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

loss of engine power due to an inadequate fuel supply leading to fuel exhaustion. The inadvertent stall during the forced landing was a factor.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04458. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.