Mooney M20E N199Q accident near Middletown, Ohio

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion, which resulted from the noncurrent pilot’s improper in-flight fuel management and decision-making and his decision to conduct the flight after consuming alcohol.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, during an approach to land, he attempted to activate the runway lights via the push-to-talk radio switch in the cockpit; however, the lights would not activate. While continuing to fly for about 2 hours attempting to locate another airport, the airplane ran out of fuel, and the pilot executed a forced landing. During the forced landing, the airplane impacted power lines and brushcovered terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings. Examination of the airplane did not reveal any preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. During the flight, the pilot entered class C and class D airspace and instrument meteorological conditions without clearance. The pilot did not hold a current medical certificate or flight review, and the airplane's annual inspection was not current. The pilot admitted to emergency first responders that he had been consuming alcohol before the flight.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13CA190 for the full record.