Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate preflight inspection, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while in the traffic pattern, the engine completely lost power. He switched fuel tanks, but engine power was not restored. The pilot conducted a forced landing and impacted trees. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, fuselage, and empennage. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel tanks contained no usable fuel and the gascolator contained about a tablespoon of fuel. There was no evidence of fuel blight at the accident site.
After the accident, the pilot stated that he did not sump the fuel tanks and should have checked the fuel level before the flight.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA080 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 16, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Nearest airport
- Millard Airport (MLE)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Luscombe 8
- N-number
- N71586
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.