On 10 Jun 2013, a CESSNA 150G operated by STEWARTS AIRCRAFT SERVICE INC was involved in an aviation accident near Franklin, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper fuel planning which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot estimated fuel at quarter tanks, added 3 gallons per tank, then flew practice maneuvers for about an hour. The engine lost power, leading to a forced landing. Examination found only residual fuel.
Accident Details
The student pilot reported that before the flight, he checked the airplane's fuel tanks. He estimated each tank was about a quarter full, which he calculated as approximately 6 gallons total. He then added 3 gallons of fuel to each tank. The flight instructor did not inspect the fuel tanks after refueling, but the student stated that the airplane had two hours of fuel on board.
The flight departed and conducted practice maneuvers for about one hour. After completing a maneuver, the engine started to sputter and subsequently lost power. The instructor executed a forced landing in a field.
Aircraft Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the engine firewall and the nose wheel had collapsed. Inspection of the fuel tanks and fuel lines found only residual fuel present.