GAA18CA537

Factual narrative

The pilot reported that, on the final approach, about 4 miles from the runway, the engine had a total power loss. He diverted to an open field but during the approach, the airplane struck a powerline and impacted the field. The pilot further reported that his fuel computer indicated that he should have landed with 30 minutes of fuel reserves and he thought he had enough fuel to complete the flight. He added that he should have diverted to refuel. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that, on final approach, about 4 miles from the runway, the engine lost all power. He diverted to an open field, but during the approach, the airplane struck a power line and then impacted the field. The pilot further reported that, although he filled the fuel tanks before the flight, he misunderstood how long the airplane could fly with full fuel and thought that he had enough fuel to complete the flight. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• C Aircraft-Fluids/misc hardware-Fluids-Fuel-Fluid management - C
• C Personnel issues-Task performance-Planning/preparation-Fuel planning-Pilot - C
• C Aircraft-Fluids/misc hardware-Fluids-Fuel-Fluid level - C