Pilot’s Inadequate Preflight Inspection And Fuel Planning Which Resulted In A Total Loss Of Engine Power Due To Fuel Exhaustion

Location: Kiowa, Colorado Accident Number: CEN25LA129
Date & Time: March 15, 2025, 16:00 Local Registration: N237DB
Aircraft: Stemme GMBH & CO S10-VT Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Fuel exhaustion Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot reported that while enroute to his destination, the engine lost all power. He attempted to restart the engine, stowed the engine to reduce drag, and executed a forced landing. During the forced landing, the glider impacted a fence and came to rest upright on a dirt road, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and rudder. 

The pilot reported that he ran out of fuel. He stated that he should have used a dipstick to check the fuel level in the wings and not trusted the fuel gauges.

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

FMI: www.ntsb.gov