The pilot told investigators this was his first flight of the season in the ski-equipped Stinson 108.
He filled one tank with 20 gallons of fuel prior to takeoff from the private airport in Houston, Alaska.
He added the taxi was difficult due to unfavorable snow conditions and he had to exit the airplane several times while taxiing.
Prior to starting his takeoff run, he was frustrated and performed a mental checklist, not confirming the position of the fuel selector. He departed with the fuel selector on the empty fuel tank. Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost total power.
The pilot conducted a forced landing into trees. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, fuselage, and rudder. The pilot sustained minor injuries in the crash.
Probable Cause: A total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation and the pilot’s mismanagement of the available fuel.
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This March 2024 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Love the idea of; you run out of gas insurance doesn’t pay and you lose your license. Want to fly again you have to take all your check rides over. No license talking jail time.
I have so much trouble understanding how so many pilots can place their lives on the line with something as simple as topping of the fuel tanks.
Perhaps a check of mental acuity is needed regularly as they have to be a danger too the country.
I have no response to this.
If I was Avemco, I’d say, ‘Tough breaks, buddy!”.