On November 10, 2001, a Cessna 182A (registration N3916D) was involved in an aviation accident near Wahoo, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation resulting in fuel exhaustion during cruise flight, and the unsuitable terrain for landing encountered by the pilot during the subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While northeast of Lincoln, Nebraska, a pilot reported fuel exhaustion to ATC. Despite vectors to Wahoo Municipal Airport, the airplane impacted trees and terrain 3 miles west of AHQ. Investigation found no fuel in the system and no mechanical anomalies.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred while the aircraft was northeast of Lincoln, Nebraska. The pilot reported to the Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) that he had bottomed out on fuel. In response, ATCT issued vectors to the Wahoo Municipal Airport in Wahoo, Nebraska. The pilot subsequently reported that he had the airport in sight but was not going to be able to make it. The airplane then impacted trees and terrain approximately 3 miles west of AHQ.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the airplane's fuel system revealed no evidence of fuel. Additionally, an examination of the engine and remaining systems showed no anomalies. No other contributing factors were identified in the investigation.
What happened in the 10 Nov 2001 Cessna 182A accident near Wahoo, NE?
While northeast of Lincoln, Nebraska, a pilot reported fuel exhaustion to ATC. Despite vectors to Wahoo Municipal Airport, the airplane impacted trees and terrain 3 miles west of AHQ. Investigation found no fuel in the system and no mechanical anomalies.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Nov 2001 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N3916D, at Wahoo, NE.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation resulting in fuel exhaustion during cruise flight, and the unsuitable terrain for landing encountered by the pilot during the subsequent forced landing. Factors relating to the accident were the pilot's inadequate fuel calculations, fuel exhaustion, and the trees.
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