Pilot Debrief

Cessna 172 near Kaplan, LA — 2019-10-05

Final reportGAA20CA006
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Date
2019-10-05
Location
Kaplan, LA, USA
Aircraft
Cessna 172
Registration
N7871U
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in fuel starvation, a total loss of engine power, and impact with a pole during an off-airport landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, at departure, the airplane had 39 gallons of fuel and that, about 1 hour 40 minutes after departure, the engine lost power. He adjusted the fuel mixture and throttle to no avail. While he was maneuvering for an off-airport landing, the left wing impacted a pole. The airplane then rotated counterclockwise and impacted an open field, and the nose landing gear broke off. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount, fuselage, and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The sheriff's deputy who responded to the accident reported that he saw fuel pouring out of the left wing. The Federal Aviation Administrator inspector who examined the airplane reported that the fuel selector lever was positioned to the right tank. The right wing tank contained between about 8 and 10 ounces of fuel with no visible signs of leakage. The wing-to-fuselage lower trim panel was removed, and the vent line and fuel supply lines were intact and secured. The left wing tank contained about 4.5 gallons. Fuel seepage stains were seen on the forward part of the pilot door. The inspector added that the overall engine condition was good.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel levels before departure to ensure adequate supply.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents5

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