Probable cause
The pilot's failure to verify that the fuel selector was properly set before takeoff, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot stated that the takeoff was uneventful until the airplane reached about 50 ft above ground level and the engine experienced a total loss of power. The engine regained power momentarily, then lost power again. The pilot performed a forced landing during which the airplane impacted a ditch. The pilot reported that fuel selector may not have been secured in the "both" position detent at the time of the takeoff, and as a result, the engine may have lost power due to fuel starvation. A postrecovery examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN18LA125 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 21, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Beggs, Oklahoma
- Nearest airport
- Eagle Creek (51OK)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cub Crafters PA18 150
- N-number
- N226JK
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2004
- 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.