CESSNA T310R
Hilo, HI — October 8, 2011
Event Information
| Date | October 8, 2011 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | WPR12CA004 |
| Event ID | 20111011X02556 |
| Location | Hilo, HI |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 19.79028, -154.92027 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | CESSNA |
| Model | T310R |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DUSK |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
A total loss of engine power during cruise flight due to fuel exhaustion as a result of the pilot’s improper fuel planning.
Full Narrative
During a trans-Pacific ferry flight from California to Hawaii the pilot reported that he lost engine power as a result of fuel exhaustion and ditched in the Pacific Ocean approximately 7 nm Northeast of Hilo, Hawaii. The pilot departed California with approximately 393 gallons of fuel, which he calculated to be approximately 14 hours of fuel endurance. The pilot reported that about 9 hours after takeoff he determined that due to a change in the wind velocity he would not reach his destination. The pilot attempted to extend his range by reducing his fuel consumption, but was unable to make his intended destination. After ditching the pilot exited the airplane and was rescued by the US Coast Guard. The airplane sank shortly after the pilot was rescued. The total duration of the flight was approximately 13 hours.
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.