MOONEY M20C near Fairview, NC — 2009-11-03

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion as a result of the pilot’s inadequate preflight fuel planning.

NTSB narrative

The airplane was about 8,000 feet above mean sea level on an instrument flight rules flight when the pilot reported a total loss of engine power to air traffic control (ATC). Upon request of the pilot, ATC provided vectors to a nearby airport. When it became apparent that the airplane would not make it, the pilot elected to land in an empty field divided by a line of trees. As the airplane made its final approach, its right wing impacted a tree, causing the airplane to swing around and impact the ground nose first before coming to rest inverted. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported no visual indication or odor of fuel at the accident site. The wreckage recovery crew also reported that no fuel was observed during the recovery process. A wreckage examination revealed no discrepancy with the airplane’s fuel system. The pilot stated that the airplane was topped off 17 days prior to the accident and that he flew four flights for a total of 4 hours, including the accident flight.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Fuel management

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have ensured adequate fuel before departure.

NTSB coding

• Fuel exhaustion · Enroute
• Planning / Preparation

Evidence available

• ATC audio
• 13 docket documents

Docket documents13

• Reports from Federal Agencies: Excerpts From Federal Aviation Administration Air Traffic Control Transcript.atc
• Reports from Federal Agencies: Federal Aviation Administration Air Traffic Controller's Statement.atc
• Other Pertinent Forms and Reports: Excerpts From the Airplane's Maintenance Records.form
• Other Pertinent Forms and Reports: Excerpts From the Pilot's Flight Logbook.form
• Other Pertinent Forms and Reports: Records of Conversation.form
• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Reports from Federal Agencies: Statements Made to the Federal Aviation Administration Inspector.interview
• Miscellaneous: Excerpts From Lycoming Operator's Manual.other
• Miscellaneous: Excerpts From the Type Certificate Data Sheets.other
• Reports from Local Agencies: Excerpts From Fairview Volunteer Fire and Rescue Report.report
• Reports from Local Agencies: Excerpts From the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office Report.report
• Weather Reports and Recordsreport
• Reports from Federal Agencies: NTSB Wreckage Examination Notes.wreckage

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