Cessna 180
Richmond, VA — September 5, 2018
Event Information
| Date | September 5, 2018 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA18CA537 |
| Event ID | 20180905X41253 |
| Location | Richmond, VA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 37.53917, -77.32584 |
| Airport | RICHMOND INTL |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | Cessna |
| Model | 180 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's improper preflight fuel planning and in-flight fuel management, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the total loss of engine power.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, on the final approach, about 4 miles from the runway, the engine had a total power loss. He diverted to an open field but during the approach, the airplane struck a powerline and impacted the field.
The pilot further reported that his fuel computer indicated that he should have landed with 30 minutes of fuel reserves and he thought he had enough fuel to complete the flight. He added that he should have diverted to refuel.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the both wings.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
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.