Bellanca 17-30A N501CR accident near Santa Paula, California

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper fuel management, which resulted in fuel starvation and a loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, after flying most of the cross-country flight with the fuel selector set to the right fuel tank, he entered an extended downwind for landing at the destination airport. Just before turning base, the right fuel tank became empty and the engine stopped. He immediately turned the fuel selector to the left tank and attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. He reported hearing the stall warning horn before the airplane “dropped out from under” him and impacted a dry riverbed, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings.

The pilot reported that his improper fuel management resulted in fuel starvation and the subsequent loss of engine power. He further remarked 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 WPR26LA240 for the full record.