Pilot Debrief

VANS RV8 near Wichita Falls, TX — 2021-12-04

Final reportCEN22LA071
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Date
2021-12-04
Location
Wichita Falls, TX, USA
Airport
F14
Aircraft
VANS RV8
Registration
N421RT
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper fuel management that resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

NTSB narrative

The pilot-rated passenger, who was the airplane owner/builder, stated while the airplane was returning to the departure airport for landing, there was a total loss of engine power on final approach. The pilot performed a forced landing and the airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed there was useable fuel in the left fuel tank, and there was no useable fuel in the right fuel tank. There were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The loss of engine power was consistent with fuel starvation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 5 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents5

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