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NTSB Report

October 5, 2019 · Cessna 172 F · N7871U

Kaplan, LA

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
October 5, 2019
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Kaplan, LA
Aircraft
Cessna 172 F (1964)
Tail Number
N7871U
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA20CA006

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.

NTSB Probable Cause

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.

Full Narrative

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.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time19:30 CDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftCessna 172 F
Tail NumberN7871U
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-360-A4M · Reciprocating · 180
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 56 · Third Class · Minor

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDark Night
Wind200° @ 3 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Altimeter29.97 inHg
Observation Time00:55
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data