ERA12CA088

Factual narrative

The pilot reported that, after a touch-and-go, about 500 feet above the ground, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport; however, it was dark and the airplane landed short of the runway. The nose gear collapsed and the airplane "flipped," resulting in structural damage to the engine firewall, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and found the right fuel tank was empty of fuel and was not breached. The pilot stated that the main fuel switch was in the right tank position when the engine lost power. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction or failure during the accident flight. The pilot reported that, after a touch-and-go landing and takeoff and, while the airplane was about 500 feet above the ground, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport; however, the airplane landed short of the runway. The nose gear collapsed, and the airplane "flipped," resulting in structural damage to the engine firewall, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer. Examination of the wreckage found that the right fuel tank was empty and was not breached. The pilot stated that the main fuel switch was in the right tank position when the engine lost power. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunction or failure. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• C Aircraft-Aircraft systems-Fuel system-Fuel selector/shutoff valve-Incorrect use/operation - C
• C Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Use of equip/system-Flight crew - C