Probable cause
The pilot's mismanagement of the airplane's fuel supply, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.
NTSB analysis
While approaching the airport for landing at the conclusion of a local flight, the airplane's engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot selected a field as a forced landing site, but noted a "ravine" in the middle of the field. Although the pilot attempted to "bounce" the airplane over the ravine during the landing, the airplane impacted the ravine wall and was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane, and that the loss of engine power was due to fuel starvation, because he forgot to open the left fuel tank shut-off valve.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA196 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 19, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- West Des Moines, Iowa
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Waco Classic Aircraft Corp YMF
- N-number
- N56ED
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1998
- 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.