Pilot Debrief

Quad City Ultralight Aircraft Challenger II near Windslow Twp, NJ — 2008-07-13

Final reportMIA08CA140
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Date
2008-07-13
Location
Windslow Twp, NJ, USA
Airport
19N
Aircraft
Quad City Ultralight Aircraft Challenger II
Registration
N2785A
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's inaccurate fuel consumption calculations which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot incorrectly calculated the fuel consumption for the planned flight to be 3.3 gallons per hour (gph), instead of 5.4 gph as referenced in the operator's manual. After takeoff with a full 10-gallon fuel tank, the pilot flew for approximately 1 hour then turned to return. At that time the fuel gauge showed "1/2" tank. During the return leg, the pilot noticed the fuel quantity gauge was indicating approximately "1/4" tank. He diverted towards a nearby airport, but the engine experienced a total loss of engine power. While descending for the forced landing, the airplane collided with a tree. Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel tank remained intact and was absent of fuel.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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