Probable cause
The pilot’s improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power during an instrument landing due to fuel exhaustion.
NTSB analysis
The on-demand cargo flight departed for the destination airport and was delayed en route due to repetitive destination airport closures. The closures were the result of snow-contaminated runways. The pilot then diverted to an alternate airport due to concerns about remaining fuel reserves. The airplane experienced a loss of engine power during an instrument approach at the alternate airport and impacted the ground about 200 yards short of the landing runway. A postaccident inspection of the airplane revealed no usable fuel on board.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA095 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 17, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Madison, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Night
Cessna 402
- N-number
- N4504B
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 135 (charter and commuter)
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.