Pilot Debrief

SKY RANGER SKY RANGER 1 near Front Royal, VA — 2026-05-09

Final reportERA26LA201
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Date
2026-05-09
Location
Front Royal, VA, USA
Airport
FRR
Aircraft
SKY RANGER SKY RANGER 1
Registration
N8092S
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection, which resulted in him taking off with the fuel selector in the OFF position, and the subsequent total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was preparing to depart and taxied to the runway, completed a magneto check, and commenced the takeoff. Shortly after takeoff, while initiating a left turn, the airplane’s engine lost power. The pilot reported that he searched for a suitable landing area, while continuing the left turn in an attempt to land on a taxiway. During the forced landing, the airplane contacted a fence and a wooden signpost before it struck the ground and the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane’s right wing and fuselage were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He further stated that he had inadvertently left the fuel selector in the OFF position and described that because the fuel selector was located behind the cockpit seats, it was awkward to see and access.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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