Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172H near Cypress, TX — 2020-12-29

Final reportCEN21LA103
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Date
2020-12-29
Location
Cypress, TX, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 172H
Registration
N3702R
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported the engine lost power as he descended to enter the traffic pattern for landing. His efforts to restore engine power were unsuccessful and he executed a forced landing to an open field, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing. A postaccident examination revealed no fuel in either fuel tank; however, fuel was present in the fuel lines. The engine was started at the accident site, and it ran for 45 seconds before it shut down. Temporary repairs were made to the right wing, fuel was added to the fuel tanks, and the airplane was ferried to an airport for further repairs. The engine operated normally during the flight. Based on the available information, it is likely that the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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