Quad City Ultralight Aircraft Challenger II
Windslow Twp, NJ — July 13, 2008
Event Information
| Date | July 13, 2008 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | MIA08CA140 |
| Event ID | 20080908X01409 |
| Location | Windslow Twp, NJ |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 40.29812, -74.52179 |
| Airport | Camden County Airport |
| Highest Injury | MINR |
Aircraft
| Make | Quad City Ultralight Aircraft |
| Model | Challenger II |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DUSK |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 1 |
| None | 1 |
| Total Injured | 1 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's inaccurate fuel consumption calculations which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent loss of engine power.
Full Narrative
The pilot stated that he filled the amateur-built Challenger II airplane's 10-gallon fuel tank before departure, and he uses approximately 3.3 gallons per hour (gph) in his fuel consumption calculations. After takeoff, he flew for about 1 hour, and then elected to return to the departure airport. At that time, the fuel quantity gauge indicated "1/2" remaining. The flight continued, and at an unknown time, the fuel quantity gauge indicated "1/4" remaining. He diverted towards a nearby airport, but the engine experienced total loss of engine power. While descending for a forced landing, the airplane collided with a tree. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed the fuel tank was empty. It was not breached and there was no evidence of fuel leakage. The Rotax "Operators Manual" indicates fuel consumption to be 7.0 and 5.4 gph at takeoff and 75 percent continuous power, respectively.
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.