Pilot Debrief

BELLANCA 17 30 near Westport, OK — 2016-06-11

Final reportCEN16LA217
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Date
2016-06-11
Location
Westport, OK, USA
Airport
4F1
Aircraft
BELLANCA 17 30
Registration
N7346V
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation and the pilot's mismanagement of the available fuel.

NTSB narrative

The pilot departed with the intention of filling the airplane's fuel tanks at a nearby airport before proceeding to his destination. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot adjusted the engine controls for cruise flight and then noticed a loss of engine power. He initiated emergency procedures by switching from the right main fuel tank to the left main fuel tank, turning on the fuel boost pump, and maneuvering the airplane for a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane contacted trees and then impacted an open field. A postaccident examination of the engine and fuel system revealed that the right main fuel tank was about three-quarters full and the other three fuel tanks were nearly empty. No fuel was present in the line from the fuel manifold to the metering unit or to the engine driven fuel pump. When tested, the boost pump delivered fuel from the right main fuel tank to the main fuel line. Other than the absence of fuel, no anomalies were noted with the engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Fuel management
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have ensured adequate fuel before departure from 4F1.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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