Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection/planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, and a loss of engine power en route.
NTSB analysis
The pilot departed for a local flight with an indication on the fuel gauges of approximately one quarter per tank of fuel. The pilot stated he did not perform a visual inspection of the fuel tanks during his pre-flight procedures. About 30 minutes into the flight, the pilot returned to the airport. Prior to reaching the airport, the engine quit due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot selected a field for a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage frame.
The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe of engine that would have precluded normal operation.
An examination of the airplane at the accident site by an FAA air safety inspector revealed there was no fuel in the tanks.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA029 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 28, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Logan, Utah
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built KITFOX CLASSIC IV
- N-number
- N195KF
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1996
- 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.