On December 9, 1998, a Cessna 310 (registration N3027D) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashland, NE. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply, which resulted in **fuel exhaustion** and subsequent engine power loss. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot executed a forced landing in a field after the aircraft's engines quit due to fuel exhaustion. The investigation confirmed the tanks held only unusable fuel, with no evidence of leaks.
What happened
The pilot was operating an airplane when the engines ceased functioning. In response to the loss of power, the pilot executed a forced landing in a nearby field. Upon landing, the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel tanks contained only unusable fuel. Inspectors found no indication of fuel leaks from the fuel tanks or the fuel tank caps. The pilot informed initial responders that the engines quit due to fuel exhaustion.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the accident was the depletion of usable fuel. The absence of external leaks suggests the fuel was consumed rather than lost through a breach in the system.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply, which resulted in **fuel exhaustion** and subsequent engine power loss.
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