Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary ANC12CA050

Chugiak, AK, USA

Aircraft #1

N207CW

WALLS CRAIG C SNOWYRIVER SPECIAL

Analysis

The pilot departed with an estimated 5 gallons of fuel, and had begun his descent to his destination airport when the engine lost all power. He established best glide speed and made a forced landing to an open stretch of road. The airplane touched down hard, spun 180 degrees, and came to rest in a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot stated that there was very little fuel found in the fuel tanks during recovery of the wreckage and that he believes he may have run out of fuel.

Factual Information

The private pilot departed with an estimated 5 gallons of fuel, and had begun his descent to his destination airport, when all engine power was lost. He established best glide speed, and made a forced landing to an open stretch of road. The airplane touchdown hard, spun 180 degrees, and came to rest in a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board, investigator-in-charge on June 15, the pilot stated there was very little fuel found in the fuel tanks during recovery of the wreckage, and he believes he may have run out of fuel.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot’s improper fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a total loss of engine power during descent.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

Get all the details on your iPhone or iPad with:

Aviation Accidents App

In-Depth Access to Aviation Accident Reports