26 Dec 2011: CESSNA 150H — SANDERS JOHN B DBA

26 Dec 2011: CESSNA 150H — SANDERS JOHN B DBA

No fatalities • Knoxville, TN, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

According to the pilot, about 300 feet above ground level, a total engine power loss occurred. The pilot unsuccessfully attempted to restart the engine and performed a forced landing into trees. The wings and fuselage of the airplane were substantially damaged. A subsequent examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the fuel tanks remained intact and were not breached, and contained about two gallons of fuel in each tank. The airplane was equipped with two 19-gallon wing tanks with a total fuel capacity of 38 gallons; of which, 35 gallons are usable. Further examination of the engine revealed that there was no fuel present in the fuel lines or the fuel separator on the engine. The inspector found no preexisting mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Not serviced/maintained

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 360/04kt, vis 10sm

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