Beech A23A

Sheboygan, WI — June 29, 2008

Event Information

DateJune 29, 2008
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberCHI08CA173
Event ID20080811X01209
LocationSheboygan, WI
CountryUSA
Coordinates43.76917, -87.85222
AirportSheboygan County Memorial
Highest InjuryMINR

Aircraft

MakeBeech
ModelA23A
CategoryAIR
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor2
None0
Total Injured2

Event Location

Probable Cause

The pilot's improper fuel management that led to fuel starvation and the loss of engine power. Contributing to the accident was the drainage ditch.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported that he departed with 30 gallons of fuel onboard. He estimated that the right and left fuel tanks contained 20 gallons and 10 gallons, respectively. The pilot reported that the accident flight was 2 hours 20 minutes in duration. While on final approach the engine lost power and the airplane impacted a 6 foot wide drainage ditch. The airplane sustained damage to the left wing, the lower fuselage structure, and the nose and left landing gear. Post accident inspection of the airplane showed that the right tank was empty and there was fuel present in the left tank. The pilot reported that he planned on a fuel burn rate of 8-1/2 gallons per hour. Using that fuel burn, the calculated fuel consumption for the accident flight was 19.8 gallons. The pilot said the accident could have been prevented if he had switched fuel tanks before the loss of engine power.

About This NTSB Record

This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.

All Aviation Events More in WI