Casualties unknown

1997-08-26: Cessna 152 (N6216Q) — West Palm Beach, FL

West Palm Beach, FL, US

On August 26, 1997, a Cessna 152 (registration N6216Q) was involved in an aviation accident near West Palm Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the flight instructor's (CFI's) inaccurate assessment of fuel available for the flight, and his improper in-flight planning/decision by continuing the training flight with minimal fuel, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial-rated student pilot and instructor experienced an engine power loss en route to Palm Beach, leading to a forced landing on a dirt road and collision with a mailbox and trees.

Incident Overview

A commercial-rated student pilot, accompanied by a certified flight instructor (CFI), was conducting a flight that included a stop at Orlando Executive Airport for refueling. Upon arrival, the FBO was closed, and the student pilot was advised by the CFI that there was sufficient fuel for the remainder of the flight to Palm Beach. The flight then proceeded to Melbourne International Airport to perform a touch-and-go landing.

Loss of Engine Power

While en route from Melbourne to Palm Beach, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The CFI assumed control of the aircraft and declared an emergency due to low fuel. Air traffic control vectored the airplane toward North County Airport, but it was unable to reach that destination.

Forced Landing and Collision

The CFI executed a forced landing on a dirt road. During the landing, the airplane collided with a mailbox and trees. The extent of damage to the airplane and any injuries to the occupants are not specified in the available information.

Investigation

The investigation into the incident is based solely on the statements provided by the student pilot and CFI. No additional details regarding aircraft type, registration, or environmental conditions have been released.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08558. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.