Casualties unknown

2002-06-16: Cessna 152 (N68437) — Greenville, NC

Greenville, NC, US

On June 16, 2002, a Cessna 152 (registration N68437) was involved in an aviation accident near Greenville, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper preflight planning and fuel management resulting in fuel exhaustion, and the total loss of engine power. The airplane nosed over during a forced landing to a cotton field. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot on a VFR cross-country flight experienced a total loss of engine power after an intermediate stop lacked fuel. The forced landing in a cotton field resulted in the airplane nosing over. Examination revealed empty, intact fuel tanks and no engine anomalies.

Overview

A pilot conducting a Visual Flight Rules (VFR) cross-country flight encountered a total loss of engine power while en route to an airport to obtain fuel. The aircraft had made an intermediate stop where fuel was unavailable. Following the engine failure, the pilot initiated a forced landing to a cotton field. Upon touchdown, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted.

Post-Accident Examination

After the accident, investigators examined the aircraft. The fuel tanks were found intact with no ruptures, but no fuel was present. An examination of the engine assembly revealed no anomalies. No other issues were identified with the airframe or systems.

Sequence of Events

The pilot departed on a VFR cross-country flight. At an intermediate stop, no fuel was available, prompting the pilot to continue to another airport for refueling. While en route, the engine lost all power. The pilot executed a forced landing to a cotton field. The landing resulted in the aircraft nosing over and coming to a stop inverted.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020620X00935. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.