NTSB Factual Report

On April 16, 2004, about 1400 central daylight time, a Cessna A185E floatplane, sustained substantial damage on impact with trees and terrain following a loss of engine power during initial climb from Lake Isabelle, near Hastings, Minnesota. The personal flight was operating under 14 CFR Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. No flight plan was on file. The pilot and passenger reported no injuries. The local flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot reported that he warmed the engine and taxied around the lake on step before that takeoff. The floatplane lost engine power during the initial climb and the pilot said that he put the floatplane between two small rows of pine trees about 20 feet apart. He reported no mechanical malfunctions with the floatplane in reference to that flight. He stated that the fuel valve was in the off position.

At 1353, the recorded Sky Meadow Airport, near Hastings, Minnesota, was: Wind calm; visibility 10 statute miles; sky condition clear; temperature 22 degrees C; dew point 3 degrees C; altimeter 29.85 inches of mercury.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot not verifying the fuel selector valve's position during the preflight leading to the fuel starvation and subsequent loss of engine power during the flight's initial climb.