At Altitude Of About 250-300 Ft Agl, The Airplane Experienced A Total Loss Of Engine Power

Location: East Troy, WI Accident Number: CEN25LA035
Date & Time: November 6, 2024, 15:55 Local Registration: N420TD
Aircraft: De Havilland DHC-1 Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On November 6, 2024, at 1600 central standard time, a De Havilland DHC-1, N420TD, was involved in an accident near East Troy, Wisconsin. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The private pilot received minor injuries. The airplane was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.

The pilot stated that during preflight of the airplane for the personal flight, there was 3 gal of fuel in the left wing tank and 4 gal of fuel in the right wing tank. He stated the airplane had a fuel capacity of 9 gal in each wing tank. He departed and performed one touch and go landing at the departure airport and then flew about 3 mi west where he performed two steep turns. He stated that during the flight’s return to the departure airport, the left wing tank fuel gauge indicated 2 gal and the right wing tank fuel gauge indicated 3 gal while the airplane was on the downwind leg for landing. About ½ way down the final approach leg for landing and at altitude of about 250-300 ft agl, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. 

The pilot changed the fuel tank selection, but the engine did not regain power. The pilot performed a forced landing and landed about 300-400 ft short of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. 

Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the left wing fuel tank contained no fuel and the right wing fuel tank contained an estimated 2/3 gal of fuel. There was no fuel within the fuel system downstream of the wing fuel tanks.

The airplane was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov