Pilot Debrief

Cessna 150 near Knotts Island, NC — 2019-02-02

Final reportERA19LA095
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Date
2019-02-02
Location
Knotts Island, NC, USA
Aircraft
Cessna 150
Registration
N6789F
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion, which resulted from the pilot's improper fuel planning.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was performing a post-maintenance test flight. The mechanic who conducted the maintenance reported that the pilot performed about 30 minutes of ground testing before departure. The pilot then remained in the airport traffic pattern and conducted several landings before departing the area to conduct maneuvers for about 30 minutes. The pilot reported that, following the maneuvers, the airplane had a complete electrical failure, and, shortly thereafter, the engine lost total power. He performed a forced landing into a marsh, during which the airplane sustained substantial damage. About 1 cup of fuel was drained from the fuel system. Both wing fuel tanks were empty of fuel, and there were no signs of fuel leakage. Examination of the engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. The reason for the reported electrical failure was not determined; however, given the available information, it is likely that the loss of engine power was the result of fuel exhaustion.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have remained in the traffic pattern after maintenance.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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