15 Apr 2012: MOONEY M20B — METZLER KEVIN W

15 Apr 2012: MOONEY M20B — METZLER KEVIN W

No fatalities • Rosamond, CA, United States

Probable cause

A loss of engine power during takeoff due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot’s selection of an empty fuel tank prior to departure.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The engine lost power after takeoff, and the pilot landed in a nearby field. Both wings collided with fence posts. The pilot reported to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector that the left fuel tank was about 1/4-full, and the right fuel tank was empty. He had the left fuel tank selected on start up and taxi. As he did his pretakeoff run up checks, he switched fuel tanks per his normal procedure. He did not return the selector valve to the left tank prior to departure.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • cause Incorrect use/operation
  • cause Fluid management
  • Contributed to outcome

Conditions

Weather
VMC, vis 10sm

Related events

Same aircraft

  • 13 Dec 2022 — MOONEY M20B (RAINWATER FARMS LLC)
  • 8 Dec 2021 — MOONEY M20B (—)
  • 24 Mar 2021 — MOONEY M20B (—)
  • 20 Jun 2014 — MOONEY M20B NO SERIES (—)
  • 11 Nov 2010 — MOONEY M20B (Terence Lumb)

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