Cessna TR182 N5196S accident near Bridgeport, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which led to fuel exhaustion and a subsequent total loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that during cruise flight he encountered engine problems, which were followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot decided to perform a forced landing, during which the right wing was substantially damaged.

A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that neither the left nor the right fuel tank had fuel. The pilot stated that, before departure, the left tank was about one-half full, and the right tank was nearly empty. Thus, the pilot was aware of the low fuel state of the airplane but thought that the airplane would have enough fuel for the flight. Because no usable fuel remained on the airplane, the circumstances of the accident were consistent with fuel exhaustion resulting in the total loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN21LA010 for the full record.