Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation as a result of the pilot's failure to select the fullest tank prior to takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the purpose of the flight was to practice touch-and-go landings. During the takeoff portion of a touch-and-go, about midway down the runway, the engine lost power. The pilot initiated a gentle left turn towards a vacant taxiway to initiate a forced landing. The pilot landed hard just short of the taxiway. The left wing was wrinkled, and the nose wheel and left main landing gear collapsed. The pilot stated that he had the incorrect fuel tank selected, and "the engine lost power due to fuel starvation." He also stated that prior to takeoff, one fuel tank had "little to no fuel" and "the other fuel tank was about half full." The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies with the engine or airframe prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA329 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 5, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Arlington, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Arlington Municipal Airport (KAWO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built GLASTAR
- N-number
- N432P
- 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.