Pilot Debrief

Grumman American AA-5A near Carrollton, KY — 2008-06-25

Final reportNYC08CA288
Sign in to save
Date
2008-06-25
Location
Carrollton, KY, USA
Aircraft
Grumman American AA-5A
Registration
N26316
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper fuel tank selection, which resulted in fuel starvation and subsequent loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

Prior to departure, the pilot visually observed approximately 12 gallons of fuel in the left wing tank and 8 gallons in the right fuel tank, of the Grumman AA-5A. His examination of the fuel gauges confirmed the same amount. He performed a run-up inspection, departed from the airport, and after approximately 45 minutes he noticed the engine oil temperature began to rise. Shortly after, the engine rpm decreased to 1800 rpm, the pilot initiated a descent, and looked for a place to land. He proceeded toward a grass landing strip and when the airplane was at an altitude of 500 feet, the engine lost power. He realized he would not be able to make it to the landing site, and performed a forced landing to the river ahead of him. The airplane came to rest upright and floated for several minutes, while the occupants egressed and swam to shore. After the airplane was recovered from the river, 10-12 gallons of fuel were drained from the right wing fuel tank. The left fuel tank was empty, and the fuel selector was selected to the left tank.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

Related mishaps