Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that he had just purchased the airplane and was flying it home on a long cross-country flight, with a planned fuel stop. During the flight, he experienced higher than planned headwinds and was rerouted for weather. He added that he did not calculate the additional fuel usage for the flight that was over 3.5 hours. During the approach to the planned fuel-stop airport, on short final for the runway, the engine lost all power. The pilot performed a forced landing on railroad tracks, resulting in substantial damage to both wings, the nose landing gear, and firewall. Examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed both fuel tanks were empty.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA25LA264 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 11, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- St. Augustine, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Northeast Florida Rgnl (SGJ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 150
- N-number
- N8503G
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1965
- 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.