Probable cause
The pilot's inadvertent movement of the fuel tank selector handle to the off position, resulting in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.
NTSB analysis
Shortly after takeoff, the engine stopped momentarily, recovered, and lost all power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a wooded area and the airplane sustained substantial damage. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine did not disclose any evidence of a mechanical malfunction. There was adequate fuel on board for the flight. The floor-mounted tank selector handle was found near the off position. It is likely that the pilot inadvertently moved the tank selector handle to the off position prior to the loss of engine power. The pilot had no recollection of the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA11LA359 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 23, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Red Oak, North Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Double S Airport (19NC)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Navion NAVION B
- N-number
- N75394
- 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.