Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion as a result of the student pilot’s inadequate fuel planning.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot reported that he had been performing touch-and-go practice takeoff and landings at a private airstrip. After approximately 10 landings, he taxied the airplane back to the parking area where he met with the former owner of the airplane and discussed the flight. After a short conversation, the pilot taxied to the end of the runway and departed to the east. The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the engine experienced a total loss of power and he attempted to land in a nearby field. The airplane subsequently impacted terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and wing assembly. The pilot attributed the loss of engine power to a lack of fuel, stating that the airplane's fuel supply was exhausted. The former owner of the airplane, who also witnessed the accident, responded to the accident site and reported observing no fuel in the fuel tank, lines, or filter.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10LA150 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 4, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Buena, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Buena (WA97)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built QUICKSLVR SPRNT II
- N-number
- N6233V
- 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.