On June 17, 2002, a Cessna 172G (registration N5953R) operated by James Rosselit was involved in an aviation accident near Butler, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The fuel exhaustion, the inadequate fuel consumption calculations by the pilot, and the inadequate in-flight planning/decision by the pilot. The unsuitable terrain encountered during the forced landing is a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane sustained substantial damage during a forced landing and nose-over in a field after fuel exhaustion. The pilot had bypassed a refueling stop to take advantage of tailwinds.
Incident Overview
During a forced landing on a pond and tall grass in a 1,000-foot-long field, the airplane was substantially damaged. The aircraft nosed over upon landing.
Pilot Actions
The pilot had continued past a planned refueling stop to take advantage of a tailwind. The flight had been en route for approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes when the pilot decided to divert to an alternate airport to obtain fuel. This alternate airport was approximately one hour from the intended destination. According to the pilot, the fuel gauges were indicating a quarter tank of fuel remaining in each fuel tank at the time of the diversion.
Fuel System Examination
During the approach to the alternate airport, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. Subsequent examination of the fuel system revealed that there was no fuel in the fuel tanks.
What happened in the 17 Jun 2002 Cessna 172G accident near Butler, MO?
An airplane sustained substantial damage during a forced landing and nose-over in a field after fuel exhaustion. The pilot had bypassed a refueling stop to take advantage of tailwinds.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 172G, registration N5953R, operated by James Rosselit, at Butler, MO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The fuel exhaustion, the inadequate fuel consumption calculations by the pilot, and the inadequate in-flight planning/decision by the pilot. The unsuitable terrain encountered during the forced landing is a contributing factor.
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