Probable cause
The pilot's improper fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a total loss of engine power.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane encountered a significant headwind during the flight and that the engine burned more fuel than he had planned. The fuel was exhausted, which resulted in a loss of all engine power. The pilot subsequently conducted a forced landing, during which the right wing struck the ground.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA173 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 15, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Independence, Iowa
- Nearest airport
- Independence Muni (IIB)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built OSPREY
- N-number
- N822GC
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2006
- 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.