Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's incorrect positioning of the fuel selector valve.
NTSB analysis
The pilot took off for a test flight and after climbing approximately 500 feet, and with about 1,000 to 1,500 feet of runway remaining, the engine lost power. The pilot lowered the nose to maintain airspeed and made a forced landing in a field at the end of the runway. Upon touchdown, the landing gear collapsed and the airplane skidded a few feet before coming to a stop. Postaccident examination indicated that the fuel selector was in the "OFF" position; the pilot thought it was in the "ON" position. The design of the selector handle was such that the "tail" of the selector handle was in the "OFF" position. A 180-degree twist of the handle would have placed it in the "ON" position.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA551 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 26, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Searcy, Arkansas
- Nearest airport
- Searcy Municipal (SRC)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built PELICAN
- N-number
- N713DW
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.