On August 20, 1999, a Cessna 182B (registration N7277E) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power as a result of fuel starvation due to the pilot's improper fuel management. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced an engine power loss while climbing after a banner drop, leading to a forced landing. Investigation found a fuel imbalance with 2 gallons in the right tank and 25 in the left.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot and witnesses, the pilot executed a banner drop in the designated drop zone at 200 feet above ground level (AGL) while paralleling runway 32L. Following the drop, the aircraft was climbing through 400 feet AGL on the crosswind leg for runway 32L when the engine experienced a loss of power over a wooded area north of the airport. The pilot then banked left toward the airport and initiated a forced landing. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground and came to rest 600 feet north of runway 4. Initial responders to the accident site reported that there was no fuel spill at the crash site.
Examination Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel selector was in the "RIGHT TANK" position. The right wing fuel tank contained approximately 2 gallons of fuel, while the left wing tank contained 25 gallons of fuel. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook, the usable fuel for level flight only is 3.5 gallons.
What happened in the 20 Aug 1999 Cessna 182B accident near Houston, TX?
An aircraft experienced an engine power loss while climbing after a banner drop, leading to a forced landing. Investigation found a fuel imbalance with 2 gallons in the right tank and 25 in the left.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Aug 1999 involved a Cessna 182B, registration N7277E, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The loss of engine power as a result of fuel starvation due to the pilot's improper fuel management.
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