5 Sep 2018: Cessna 180 Undesignat

5 Sep 2018: Cessna 180 Undesignat — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Richmond, VA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's improper preflight fuel planning and in-flight fuel management, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the total loss of engine power.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot reported that, on the final approach, about 4 miles from the runway, the engine had a total power loss. He diverted to an open field but during the approach, the airplane struck a powerline and impacted the field.

The pilot further reported that his fuel computer indicated that he should have landed with 30 minutes of fuel reserves and he thought he had enough fuel to complete the flight. He added that he should have diverted to refuel.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the both wings.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Fluid management
  • cause Pilot
  • cause Fluid level

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 090/03kt, vis 10sm

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