The Pilot Stated That He Should Have Refueled Earlier In The Flight

Location: Ennis, Texas Accident Number: CEN25LA091
Date & Time: February 1, 2025, 22:30 Local Registration: N334LF
Aircraft: Aircraft Mfg & Development Co Ch 2000 Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Fuel exhaustion Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: After about 4 hours and 15 minutes of a cross-country flight, while approaching the final destination, the airplane ran out of fuel. The pilot attempted to divert to a closer airport but had to execute a forced landing to a grassy field. Upon landing the airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage above the right wing. Examination of the airplane at the accident site confirmed that there no usable fuel in the fuel tanks. The pilot stated that he should have refueled earlier in the flight, and that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane, engine, or related systems that would have precluded normal operations.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s improper fuel planning which resulted in the total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov