Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Fuel Gauges Showed 10 Gallons Before Dual Engine Failure and Undershoot (N728QA)

Milwaukee, WI, US

On December 9, 1997, a Cessna 402A (registration N728QA) was involved in an aviation accident near Milwaukee, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate preflight planning/preparation, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. 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

A pilot reported noting 10 gallons of fuel on 'each side' before an approach. Both engines lost power sequentially, leading to an undershoot and damage. No usable fuel was found in the tanks.

Accident Overview

During an approach, a pilot noted approximately 10 gallons of fuel on each side. About five minutes later, the left engine experienced a loss of power. Approximately three minutes after that, the right engine also lost power. The subsequent undershoot of the intended runway resulted in damage to the airplane.

Post-Accident Findings

Emergency response personnel examined the airplane and found no usable fuel in the fuel tanks. The pilot stated that the accident might have been prevented by a 'visual inspection of all fuel tank with calibrated device.'

Pilot Statement

The pilot's recollection indicated that the fuel quantity indication prior to the approach was 10 gallons per side. The sequence of power loss began with the left engine, followed by the right engine. The pilot's comment suggested a potential preventive measure involving calibrated visual inspection of fuel tanks.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09272. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.