Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's inadequate preflight planning and improper fuel consumption calculations. The soft terrain was a factor in this accident.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The engine sustained a total loss of power about 1.5 miles north-northeast of the airport. The pilot landed in an open field, but nosed over during the landing roll. The pilot reported that the airplane ran out of gas.
Source record
Factual narrative
On September 28, 1995, at 0834 hours mountain standard time, a Cessna P210N, N6500W, nosed over onto its back while executing an emergency landing in an open area about 1 1/2 miles north-northeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, Phoenix, Arizona. The emergency landing was precipitated by a total loss of engine power. The airplane, registered to and operated by Sun State Builders, Tempe, Arizona, sustained substantial damage. The certificated private pilot, the sole occupant, received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The flight originated at Prescott Airport at 0800 hours. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Western-Pacific Region quality assurance personnel reported that the pilot transmitted to the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport local controller at 0833 hours: "I ran out of fuel." FAA inspectors from the Scottsdale Flight Standards District Office, Scottsdale, Arizona, reported that there was no evidence of any fuel spillage or any fuel remaining in the airplane wing tanks. In the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1/2, the pilot stated, in part, ". . . ran out of fuel short of Phoenix, Sky Harbor. . . ." -