Casualties unknown

Pilot Forced to Land After Engine Sputters; No Fuel Found in Tanks (N59TB)

Mobile, AL, US

On October 7, 1996, a Socata TB-20 (registration N59TB) was involved in an aviation accident near Mobile, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper management of fuel, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and loss of engine power during a go-around, and subsequent collision with trees and terrain during a forced landing. 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 an ILS approach and go-around, the engine sputtered. The pilot attempted a forced landing but collided with trees and terrain. Examination revealed no fuel in the right tank, filter, or distributor; the left tank was ruptured but dry. The engine operated normally in a test cell.

Accident Summary

The pilot reported that after completing an ILS approach, he initiated a go-around. Shortly afterwards, the engine began to sputter. The pilot reversed course and attempted a forced landing. During the landing attempt, the airplane collided with trees and terrain.

Post-Crash Examination

Examination of the crash site revealed that the left fuel tank was ruptured. There was no odor of fuel or evidence of any fuel leakage at the scene. The right fuel tank was not ruptured, and no fuel was present in the right fuel tank. Additionally, no fuel was found in the fuel filter or the fuel distributor valve.

Engine Test

The engine was removed and placed in an engine test cell. During testing, the engine started, developed power, and was operated for 20 minutes before being shut down. No issues with engine operation were noted during the test.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06944. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.