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NTSB Report
May 3, 2012 · Air Tractor AT-301 · N3166W
Cedar Bluffs, NE
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 3, 2012
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Cedar Bluffs, NE
Aircraft
Air Tractor AT-301
Tail Number
N3166W
Operator
Swancutt Aviation
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN12CA274
While conducting an aerial application flight, the pilot noticed that the fuel gauge displayed a low quantity. While the pilot attempted to return to an airstrip, the engine stopped producing power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a cornfield. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported in a postaccident statement that he ran out of fuel. Postaccident examination confirmed fuel exhaustion.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Full Narrative
While conducting an aerial application flight, the pilot noticed that the fuel gauge displayed a low quantity. While attempting to return to an airstrip, the engine stopped producing power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a cornfield. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. In a statement provided by the pilot to the Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the pilot said that he ran out of fuel. In addition, a certified airframe and powerplant mechanic examined the airplane after the accident and confirmed fuel exhaustion.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time18:50 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftAir Tractor AT-301
Tail NumberN3166W
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorSwancutt Aviation
Operating RulePart 137
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsP&W · R1340 SERIES · Reciprocating · 600
Seats1
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 58 · Second Class
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point46
Altimeter29.80 inHg
Observation Time23:53
Weather SourceWFAC