On September 9, 1999, a Mooney M20D (registration N5586Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Edna, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to account for greater than normal fuel consumption and ran out of fuel. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during a cross-country flight due to fuel exhaustion, resulting in a forced landing in a field approximately 3 miles south of the intended airport.
Accident Overview
The airplane impacted terrain during a forced landing after a total loss of engine power occurred while on a cross-country flight. The pilot diverted the flight toward the nearest airport; however, the airplane landed in a field about 3 miles south of that airport.
Preflight Planning
During preflight planning, the pilot calculated fuel consumption at 8 gallons per hour, with 45 gallons of usable fuel available.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the engine had recently been overhauled and that the fuel consumption was apparently greater than normal. He stated that he failed to account for this increased consumption and subsequently ran out of fuel.
Probable cause
The pilot failed to account for greater than normal fuel consumption and ran out of fuel.