On August 10, 1996, a Cessna 182B (registration N2487G) was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Ana, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper fuel management by the pilot resulting in exhaustion of the aircraft's fuel supply. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot made an off-airport emergency landing after the engine quit during a nighttime descent, five miles from the destination. The pilot acknowledged fuel exhaustion and reported improper mixture leaning.
Event Description
During a nighttime descent for landing, the aircraft's engine ceased operation when it was approximately five miles from the destination airport. The pilot subsequently performed an off-airport emergency landing in an open field.
Pilot Statement
The pilot acknowledged that the fuel supply had been exhausted. He stated that he had been cruising at an altitude of 11,500 feet and mentioned that he may not have properly leaned the mixture during the flight.
Post-Accident Examination
After the incident, salvage crew members drained fuel from the aircraft's tanks. They recovered one gallon of fuel from the right fuel tank and three gallons from the left fuel tank.
What happened in the 10 Aug 1996 Cessna 182B accident near Santa Ana, CA?
A pilot made an off-airport emergency landing after the engine quit during a nighttime descent, five miles from the destination. The pilot acknowledged fuel exhaustion and reported improper mixture leaning.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Aug 1996 involved a Cessna 182B, registration N2487G, at Santa Ana, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Improper fuel management by the pilot resulting in exhaustion of the aircraft's fuel supply.
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