On December 16, 1996, a Cessna 172B (registration N6937X) operated by Oren C. Nelson was involved in an aviation accident near Charleston, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot performed an emergency landing in wooded terrain after the aircraft engine lost power. Investigation confirmed empty fuel tanks, and a witness reported the pilot admitted to misjudging fuel levels.
What happened
The aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power during flight, necessitating an emergency forced landing into adjacent wooded terrain. Upon arrival at the scene, investigators examined the airplane and discovered that both fuel tanks were completely empty. The pilot was unable to provide a formal account of the accident despite multiple requests for information.
Findings
A witness who observed the incident reported that the pilot stated shortly after the landing that he had misjudged the amount of fuel remaining in the airplane. This admission, combined with the physical evidence of empty tanks, points directly to fuel exhaustion as the primary factor leading to the engine failure and subsequent forced landing.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion.
What happened in the 16 Dec 1996 Cessna 172B accident near Charleston, WV?
A pilot performed an emergency landing in wooded terrain after the aircraft engine lost power. Investigation confirmed empty fuel tanks, and a witness reported the pilot admitted to misjudging fuel levels.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Dec 1996 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N6937X, operated by Oren C. Nelson, at Charleston, WV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply for the flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion.
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