Remos GX N81GX accident near Fort Pierce, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power during cruise flight due to fuel exhaustion.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the airplane had not flown for about 1 year, and he was told 5 gallons of automobile gasoline remained in it during that time. The pilot further stated that he added an additional 10 gallons of automobile gasoline before the accident flight; however, he was unable to provide a receipt for that fuel. About 30 minutes into a cross-country flight to another airport to purchase more fuel, the engine exhibited a decrease in rpm followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot managed to restart the engine but it lost all power again. He was unable to glide the airplane to the nearest airport and subsequently performed a forced landing to a field.

Postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed that the single 22-gallon fuselage fuel tank remained intact and contained no fuel. Additionally, the engine-driven fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetors contained no fuel. Once fuel was added, the engine started normally and ran continuously. Based on this information, it is likely that during the flight, the airplane’s fuel supply was exhausted, which resulted in the total loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA388 for the full record.