Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 421B near Artesia, NM — 2010-03-18

Final reportCEN10LA166
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Date
2010-03-18
Location
Artesia, NM, USA
Airport
KATS
Aircraft
CESSNA 421B
Registration
N3382Q
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Approach

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's improper fuel management.

NTSB narrative

While on final approach to land, the left engine lost power, the airplane suddenly swerved to the left, and the airplane's descent rate increased. The pilot attempted a go-around and switched from the main fuel tank to the auxiliary fuel tank. The airplane struck a wire and impacted the ground, breaking the left wing spar and separating the right engine from the wing. A postimpact fire ensued around the right engine. During the postaccident examination of the wreckage, fuel was found in the right main tank and both auxiliary tanks. The left main tank was found intact and empty. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane and no anomalies were found with the engines or other airplane systems that would have prevented normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have ensured adequate fuel in the left main tank before switching tanks.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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