Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to refuel the airplane prior to fuel exhaustion, and his failure to maintain airspeed resulting in an aerodynamic stall. His inadequate training was a factor in the accident.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was not qualified to fly the amateur built airplane. He was not certificated as required by the faa, and no record of formal training was claimed. The pilot stated that while cruising about 2000 feet agl, the airplane lost all engine power. While he was turning to change direction, the airplane stalled. The pilot was able to regain control at approximately 100 to 200 feet agl before impacting the ground. Postaccident examination revealed no fuel in the fuel tank.
Source record
Factual narrative
On January 23, 1994, about 1545 central standard time, an amateur built, unregistered "Supercat" airplane, sustained substantial damage following a loss of engine power while maneuvering near the Stafford Airport, Stafford, Kansas. The solo uncertificated pilot received serious injury during the subsequent forced landing. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local, 14 CFR Part 91 flight. The pilot stated that while cruising at approximately 2000 feet above ground level (AGL), the airplane lost all engine power. He immediately turned the airplane to change direction, and the airplane stalled. The pilot was able to regain control of the airplane approximately 100 to 200 feet AGL before impacting the ground. Postaccident examination revealed no fuel in the fuel tank and only a few drops of fuel in the gascolator. The pilot claimed no formal flight training and no record of flight training or pilot certification was discovered. -