On June 30, 2007, a Cessna 172N (registration N738SV) operated by Noble Flight was involved in an aviation accident near Yorkville, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate fuel consumption calculations by the pilot, the fuel exhaustion during cruise flight, and the unsuitable landing area encountered by the pilot. Contributing factors were the night light conditions and trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during cruise flight, leading to a forced landing after the pilot noted low fuel indications. Examination revealed no usable fuel in the tanks.
Accident Overview
During a night cross-country flight, the pilot reported that the destination airport was in sight when the left fuel gauge indicated empty and the right gauge showed just below one-quarter tank. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost power completely. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
The pilot executed a forced landing toward a dark area on the ground. During the landing, the airplane struck trees and impacted terrain.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the airplane's fuel tanks found no usable fuel remaining.
What happened in the 30 Jun 2007 Cessna 172N accident near Yorkville, IL?
An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during cruise flight, leading to a forced landing after the pilot noted low fuel indications. Examination revealed no usable fuel in the tanks.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jun 2007 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N738SV, operated by Noble Flight, at Yorkville, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The inadequate fuel consumption calculations by the pilot, the fuel exhaustion during cruise flight, and the unsuitable landing area encountered by the pilot. Contributing factors were the night light conditions and trees.
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