Probable cause
The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he could not remember the exact date he last fueled his airplane, but recalled that it was completely fueled. He then flew about 2 hours uneventfully. The airplane was not refueled and he departed on the planned 1 hour 19 minute flight. The flight took longer than expected due to a headwind and he said that he deviated over some clouds. During a cruise descent to the destination airport, the engine experienced a total loss of power and he performed a forced landing to a road, about 4 miles south of the destination airport. During the landing, the left wing struck trees, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot added that the accident was due to 100 percent fuel exhaustion.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11CA217 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 26, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Hannawana Falls, New York
- Nearest airport
- Potsdam Municipal Airport (PTD)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 150F
- N-number
- N8830G
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.