Probable cause
The pilot's inaccurate fuel consumption calculations which led to fuel exhaustion and subsequent loss of engine power.
NTSB analysis
The pilot incorrectly calculated the fuel consumption for the planned flight to be 3.3 gallons per hour (gph), instead of 5.4 gph as referenced in the operator's manual. After takeoff with a full 10-gallon fuel tank, the pilot flew for approximately 1 hour then turned to return. At that time the fuel gauge showed "1/2" tank. During the return leg, the pilot noticed the fuel quantity gauge was indicating approximately "1/4" tank. He diverted towards a nearby airport, but the engine experienced a total loss of engine power. While descending for the forced landing, the airplane collided with a tree. Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fuel tank remained intact and was absent of fuel.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for MIA08CA140 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 13, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Windslow Twp, New Jersey
- Nearest airport
- Camden County Airport (19N)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Quad City Ultralight Aircraft Challenger II
- N-number
- N2785A
- 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.