Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172N near Ankeny, IA — 2010-03-31

Final reportCEN10CA178
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Date
2010-03-31
Location
Ankeny, IA, USA
Airport
IKV
Aircraft
CESSNA 172N
Registration
N883AV
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion as a result of the pilot's inadequate in-flight fuel monitoring.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that the cross-country flight proceeded normally until approximately 25 miles from the destination. At that time, the engine speed decreased unexpectedly. His attempts to increase engine power by pushing in the throttle had no effect. The pilot stated that he switched the fuel selector to the right tank and then to the left tank with no effect. He returned the fuel selector to the “both” setting and the engine regained power. The pilot then elected to immediately divert to the nearest airport; however, the engine lost power again and he executed a forced landing to a corn field. The airplane nosed over and was substantially damaged. A postaccident inspection did not reveal any anomalies associated with a preimpact engine failure or malfunction. No evidence of a fuel spill was observed at the accident site, and no fuel was observed in the fuel tanks after the accident.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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