On September 21, 1995, an Air Tractor AT-502 (registration N1529E) was involved in an aviation accident near Lorida, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: MISMANAGEMENT OF THE FUEL BY THE PILOT RESULTING IN THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO FUEL EXHAUSTION, AND THE PILOT'S POOR DECISION TO FLY OVER WATER EN ROUTE TO THE REFUELING AIRPORT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural spraying flight, the aircraft descended into Lake Istokpoga after the pilot decided not to refuel despite a 1/4 fuel gauge indication. The pilot did not escape the submerged airplane; recovery yielded about 2 gallons of fuel and water.
Incident Summary
Prior to departure, while the engine was running, an employee filling the hopper observed the fuel gauge in the cockpit indicating one-quarter full. The employee advised the pilot to refuel. The pilot responded that he would spray part of the load and then fly to Sebring to refuel. The flight departed toward the spray location south of Lake Istokpoga.
Witness and Recovery Details
A witness in a boat observed the airplane descend into the water. The airplane impacted the water and nosed over, coming to rest in approximately 5 feet of water. The pilot did not escape. According to the diver who recovered the pilot's body, visibility beneath the surface was poor. During recovery of the airplane, the fuel tanks were drained using the sump drains, and about 2 gallons of fuel and water were recovered.
Examination Findings
Examination of the airplane while partially submerged revealed that the four-place seat restraint was unlatchhed and the cockpit doors were open. The pilot was not wearing a helmet.