Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 182P near Mineral Wells, TX — 2025-06-08

Final reportCEN25LA199
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Date
2025-06-08
Location
Mineral Wells, TX, USA
Airport
MWL
Aircraft
CESSNA 182P
Registration
N7376N
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper fuel tank selection prior to takeoff, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow the airplane checklist.

Contributing factors

Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow the airplane checklist.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, the engine lost total power about 200 ft above the ground during the initial climb. The pilot observed that the fuel selector was in the OFF position and moved the fuel selector to the BOTH position but chose not to attempt to restart the engine due to the airplane’s low altitude. The pilot conducted a forced landing, during which the right wing and vertical stabilizer sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation, and he failed to properly use the checklist during the preflight.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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