NTSB Factual Report

On September 27, 2003, about 2200 central daylight time, a Cessna 150L, N21915, piloted by a commercial pilot, sustained substantial damage on impact with trees and terrain following an in-flight loss of engine power during an approach to Smith Field Airport (SLG), near Siloam Springs, Arkansas. The personal flight was operating under 14 CFR Part 91. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. No flight plan was on file. The pilot reported no injuries. The flight departed from Fayetteville, Arkansas, at time unknown and was approaching to land at SLG at the time of the accident.

A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspector examined the wreckage on-site. The inspector found that the "engine stopped producing power as a result of fuel starvation."

The pilot and airplane owner were each mailed an accident report to complete. In his report, the airplane's owner stated that the pilot departed Fayetteville en route to Siloam Springs knowing he "had no more than 35 minutes fuel at night." The owner reported no mechanical malfunctions associated with the airplane on the flight.

During an interview with the FAA, the pilot stated, "I ran out of gas."

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power due to the pilot's inadequate planning/decision resulting in fuel exhaustion. Factors were the trees and the night conditions.