Probable cause
The total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion, which resulted in a forced landing and a collision with a tree.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to use most of the fuel remaining in the fuel tanks so that he could store the airplane over the summer. While returning to the airport, the engine experienced a total loss of power. During the subsequent forced landing to a small field, the airplane hit a tree, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot stated that when the airplane was recovered, both fuel tanks were empty.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA207 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 3, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Alamo, Texas
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built FW2R
- N-number
- N418DS
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1999
- 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.