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Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over in Crop Field (N4521M)

Orland, CA, US

On July 9, 2007, a Cessna 182G (registration N4521M) operated by Lawrence Shapiro was involved in an aviation accident near Orland, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion due to the pilot's improper preflight inspection and preparation, and his failure to ensure adequate fuel was onboard for the anticipated flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot and passenger experienced an engine power loss during a familiarization flight, leading to a forced landing in a soft, plowed field where the aircraft nosed over. One gallon of fuel was recovered.

Accident Details

During a short familiarization flight, a private pilot and a passenger departed from an airport. The passenger observed that the fuel gauges indicated empty, but the pilot advised the passenger to disregard the gauges. Approximately 10 miles north of the airport, while the aircraft was in a left turn at an altitude of 1,200 feet, the engine began sputtering and subsequently lost power.

The pilot executed a forced landing into a soft and recently plowed crop field. During the landing, the airplane nosed over. After the accident, one gallon of fuel was drained from the aircraft during recovery.

Investigation Findings

An FAA inspector examined the airplane wreckage and identified no airframe or engine mechanical failures or malfunctions.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 2007 Cessna 182G accident near Orland, CA?

A private pilot and passenger experienced an engine power loss during a familiarization flight, leading to a forced landing in a soft, plowed field where the aircraft nosed over. One gallon of fuel was recovered.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Jul 2007 Cessna 182G accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 2007 involved a Cessna 182G, registration N4521M, operated by Lawrence Shapiro, at Orland, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Fuel exhaustion due to the pilot's improper preflight inspection and preparation, and his failure to ensure adequate fuel was onboard for the anticipated flight.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070716X00941. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.