Aircraft N1981V Data

Airframe Info

Manufacturer:	Cessna
Model:	120    Search all Cessna 120
Year built:	1947
Construction Number (C/N):	14192
Aircraft Type:	Fixed wing single engine
Number of Seats:	2
Number of Engines:	1
Engine Type:	Reciprocating
Engine Manufacturer and Model:	Cont Motor C85 SERIES

Aircraft

Registration Number:	N1981V
Mode S (ICAO24) Code:	A18872
Certification Class:	Standard
Certification Issued:	2006-10-26
Air Worthiness Test:	1956-06-22
Last Action Taken:	2006-10-26
Current Status:	Valid

Owner

Registration Type:	Corporation
Owner:	Classic Builders
Address:	Huntington, WV 25701 United States
Region:	Eastern

User Comments

Stephen Vail, 2009-07-22 04:00:00

1981V Destroyed July 30, 2006. NTSB Identification: NYC06CA188. The docket is stored in the Docket Management System (DMS). Please contact Records Management Division Accident occurred Sunday, July 30, 2006 in Ashland, KY Probable Cause Approval Date: 11/29/2006 Aircraft: Cessna 120, registration: N1981V Injuries: 1 Uninjured. Following a complete loss of engine power, the Cessna 120 collided with trees, during an attempted return to the departure airport. According to the pilot, he had not visually checked the fuel quantity in the tanks prior to departure; however, the right fuel tank gauge indicated 1/4 full. The pilot also stated that the fuel gauges were unreliable. When asked if he had used a checklist, he offered that he "didn't use a written checklist, but had gone through a mental one prior to takeoff." The pilot normally flew a Cessna 180 where the middle position of the fuel selector was used for both tanks. On the Cessna 120, however; the middle position was for right tank only. No evidence of preimpact mechanical failures were discovered. Fuel was present in both fuel tanks, the primer was unlocked, and the left fuel gauge indicated 3/8 full. The fuel selector was in the "off" position; however, the mechanic first to respond to the accident site could not recall if he turned the fuel selector "off," or if it was already in that position. According to the Cessna 120 Owners Manual a pilot should "set fuel tank selector to the fullest tank for takeoff," and "not takeoff on less than 1/4 tank." The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows: The pilot's improper fuel tank selection, which resulted in fuel starvation and a subsequent loss of engine power. A factor in the accident was the trees.