Probable cause
The pilot's improper decision to takeoff from an inadequate field after a forced landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the Cessna 152 fueled the airplane to full tanks, prior to departure. He planned for his flight to take approximately 3 hours, and his past experience led him to estimate a 4-hour endurance for the airplane. After approximately 2.7 hours, the engine began to run rough, and the pilot diverted to a nearby airport. The engine continued to lose power, and the pilot decided to land in a field, when he realized he would not be able to make it to the airport. After landing, the pilot observed that the left fuel tank was empty. The right fuel tank contained fuel, and its fuel gauge indicated 1/4 tank full. The pilot then decided to add fuel to the airplane and take off from the field. During the attempted takeoff, the airplane struck a rut in the grass and nosed over, substantially damaging the wings and fuselage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for NYC08CA080 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 11, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Labelle, Florida
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna C-152
- N-number
- N48251
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.