Probable cause
The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation, and the subsequent nose-over during the forced landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, after a touch-and-go landing and takeoff and, while the airplane was about 500 feet above the ground, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport; however, the airplane landed short of the runway. The nose gear collapsed, and the airplane "flipped," resulting in structural damage to the engine firewall, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer. Examination of the wreckage found that the right fuel tank was empty and was not breached. The pilot stated that the main fuel switch was in the right tank position when the engine lost power. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunction or failure.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA12CA088 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 25, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Quinton, Virginia
- Nearest airport
- New Kent County Airport (W96)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Amateur-built VANS RV-7A
- N-number
- N816BA
- 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.