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NTSB Report
May 13, 2012 · Maule M-4-220C · N615SD
Sterling, AK
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 13, 2012
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Sterling, AK
Aircraft
Maule M-4-220C
Tail Number
N615SD
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ANC12CA047
The pilot stated that he did not use a preflight checklist, and, as a result, he did not turn the fuel selector valve to the "ON" position. During the initial climb, the engine lost power, and the airplane impacted terrain, sustaining substantial damage to both wings. The pilot said that the accident could have been prevented if he had used a preflight checklist.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to use a preflight checklist and subsequent failure to turn on the airplane's fuel supply, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that he did not use a preflight checklist, and as a result, he did not turn the fuel selector valve to the "ON" position. During the initial climb, the engine lost power, and the airplane impacted terrain, receiving substantial damage to both wings. The pilot said that the accident could have been prevented through the use of a preflight checklist.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time13:00 AKDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft
AircraftMaule M-4-220C
Tail NumberN615SD
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsFranklin · 6A-350-C1 · Reciprocating · 220
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 41 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind80° @ 6 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point45 C / 28 C
Altimeter29.80 inHg
Observation Time15:56
Weather SourceWFAC