The pilot’s decision to continue the taxi without visual reference to the surface, due to his vision being impaired by darkness and glare, which resulted in the airplane’s departure from the paved surface and impact with a ditch. Contributing was the flight instructor’s inadequate monitoring of the pilot.
Aircraft
Fuel starvation, low altitude lead to crash
The total loss of engine power due to the pilot’s improper fuel management, which led to fuel starvation. Contributing to the accident was the low altitude at which the loss of engine power occurred.
Aviate, navigate, and communicate
I immediately advised ATC because I realized I could not safely land the plane and was not sure I had full control with the envelope protection system engagement. After advising ATC I reverted to my training, prioritizing aviate, navigate, and communicate.
Attempted takeoff in wet sand bends Maule
The pilot’s decision to depart from an area of wet sand, which resulted in a nose over during the attempted takeoff.
Microburst ends training flight
The airplane’s encounter with a microburst during initial climb that resulted in a loss of altitude and subsequent collision with a tree.
Leaky valve ends training flight early
At 2,000 feet the engine sputtered and we lost fuel pressure and I noticed we had four gallons of fuel. I knew at this point we were losing fuel.
Crosswind causes first solo to go awry
I caught myself thinking about how I am now 100% responsible for this landing and my instructor is no longer around to get me out of small mistakes that can turn into big ones. This sparked some fear in me as I approach the runway and clouded some of my decision-making skills.
The latest on aviation lubricants
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is a time to discover new products, as well as catch up with old friends.
Sporty’s introduces AeroWear X-1 Flight Jacket
Nothing says innovation and toughness like the X-1, the first aircraft to break the sound barrier, flown by General Chuck Yeager in 1947. Inspired by that, Sporty’s is introducing the AeroWear X-1 Flight Jacket.