Kaplan, LA, USA
N7871U
Cessna 172
The pilot reported that, at departure, the airplane had 39 gallons of fuel and that, about 1 hour 40 minutes after departure, the engine lost power. He adjusted the fuel mixture and throttle to no avail. While he was maneuvering for an off-airport landing, the left wing impacted a pole. The airplane then rotated counterclockwise and impacted an open field, and the nose landing gear broke off. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount, fuselage, and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The sheriff's deputy who responded to the accident reported that he saw fuel pouring out of the left wing. The Federal Aviation Administrator inspector who examined the airplane reported that the fuel selector lever was positioned to the right tank. The right wing tank contained between about 8 and 10 ounces of fuel with no visible signs of leakage. The wing-to-fuselage lower trim panel was removed, and the vent line and fuel supply lines were intact and secured. The left wing tank contained about 4.5 gallons. Fuel seepage stains were seen on the forward part of the pilot door. The inspector added that the overall engine condition was good.
The pilot reported that the airplane departed with 39 gallons of fuel, and about 1 hour and 40 minutes after departure the engine lost power. He adjusted the fuel mixture and throttle, with no effect. While maneuvering for an off-airport landing, the left wing impacted a pole and rotated the airplane counterclockwise. Subsequently, the nose landing gear collapsed and the airplane came to rest in an open field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine mount, fuselage and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The sheriff's deputy, that responded to the accident, observed that there was fuel pouring out of the left wing of the airplane. The Federal Aviation Administrator inspector who examined the airplane reported that the fuel selector lever was on the right tank selected position. The right wing tank contained about 8-10 oz. of fuel remaining with no visible signs of leakage. Upon removal of wing to fuselage lower trim panel it was noted that the vent line and fuel supply lines were intact and secured. The left wing tank contained about 4.5 gallons. Visual evidence of fuel seepage stains were observed on forward part of pilot door. The inspector further added that the overall engine condition was good.
The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in fuel starvation, a total loss of engine power, and impact with a pole during an off-airport landing.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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