Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172E near Kingman, AZ — 2026-01-14

Final reportWPR26LA081
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Date
2026-01-14
Location
Kingman, AZ, USA
Airport
PVT
Aircraft
CESSNA 172E
Registration
N7783U
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to use a pre-takeoff checklist, which resulted in the fuel selector being in the off position, and subsequent loss of engine power during takeoff.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the airplane reported that during the takeoff roll from a private dirt airstrip, the engine suddenly lost power. As he scanned the instrument panel and engine controls, he observed the fuel selector valve lever in the OFF position. He switched the fuel selector valve to BOTH and noticed that the propeller had stopped turning. Subsequently, the airplane exited the departure end of the runway, impacted a ditch, and nosed over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left lift strut, vertical stabilizer, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Additionally, the pilot reported that he should have used the checklist. (Fuel was in the “OFF” position).

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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