Aviation Accident Summary ANC00LA090

WASILLA, AK, USA

Aircraft #1

N6194M

Maule ML-5

Analysis

The pilot said he knew prior to takeoff that the left wing tank was almost empty and that he needed to switch to the right fuel tank. He said that after his initial takeoff, as soon as he turned away from the runway, the engine lost all power. He indicated he switched the fuel selector to the right tank, and turned the airplane back toward the runway. The engine did not restart, and there was not enough altitude to reach the runway. The airplane landed in a swampy area, and sustained substantial damage to the right wing and right wing lift struts.

Factual Information

On July 14, 2000, about 1700 Alaska daylight time, a wheel equipped Maule ML-5 airplane, N6194M, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing after takeoff from the New Wasilla Airport, Wasilla, Alaska. The personal flight was being conducted under Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The solo private pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight originated from the New Wasilla Airport about 1655. During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge on July 16, and in his NTSB Pilot/Operator report, the pilot said he intended to remain within the landing pattern and perform touch and go landings. He stated he knew prior to takeoff that the left wing tank was almost empty and that he needed to switch to the right fuel tank. He said that after his initial takeoff, as soon as he turned away from the runway, the engine lost all power. He indicated he switched the fuel selector to the right tank, and turned the airplane back toward the runway. He said the engine did not restart, and there was not enough altitude to reach the runway. The airplane landed in a swampy area, and sustained substantial damage to the right wing and right wing lift struts.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper use of the fuel tank selector, resulting in fuel starvation.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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