Cessna Fuel Exhaustion Accident (N9485B)

Accident Description and Fuel Planning Details The pilot refueled the aircraft with 43.1 gallons of fuel before departing at 1645 for a cross-country return flight. Approximately twenty miles from the destination, the engine began running rough. The pilot applied carburetor heat, which temporarily resolved the issue. Shortly after, at 2012, the engine stopped completely, and the aircraft impacted the terrain in a partially wooded field about three miles north of the destination. Post-accident examination revealed minimum residual fuel in the tanks. An FAA Inspector noted no signs of fuel stains on the wreckage, indicating no fuel leaks from the tanks or other areas. The pilot stated that 52 gallons of fuel were used for flight planning purposes. However, the Cessna owner's manual specified a total fuel capacity of 52 gallons, with only 43 gallons usable. The manual's cruise performance chart indicated that at 5,000 feet altitude with a 72% power setting and rich mixture, the engine would consume 12.3 gallons of fuel per hour, providing an endurance time of 3.5 hours.