On April 16, 2004, a Cessna A185E (registration N185TY) was involved in an aviation accident near Hastings, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot not verifying the fuel selector valve's position during the preflight leading to the fuel starvation and subsequent loss of engine power during the flight's initial climb. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A floatplane sustained substantial damage after a loss of engine power during initial climb from a lake. The pilot and passenger reported no injuries.
Accident Overview
A floatplane was substantially damaged when it struck trees and terrain after losing engine power while climbing from a lake. The pilot and passenger were not injured in the occurrence.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that he warmed the engine and taxied on step across the lake before taking off. He positioned the floatplane between two rows of pine trees that were about 20 feet apart.
Fuel Valve Position
The pilot reported that the fuel valve was in the off position during the flight. He indicated that no mechanical malfunctions were noted with the floatplane on that flight.