Rockwell Commander 112 | N1102J

The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be Pilot Error, in that the accident pilot changed fuel tanks selection in flight, from left tank to right tank, and did not get the tank selector properly seated in the right position, thereby self-inducing an engine failure. While numerous suitable off airport flat and open fields were available, the accident pilot set up for a straight in approach to a hay field, but stalled the aircraft while clearing trees, and did impact with excessive nose low and very high G type impact. The right fuel tank was breached, but was initially found with fuel running from it, while the fuel selector was observed in between the right fuel tank and off positions, a position that precluded the proper flow of fuel to the engine. Fuel receipts showed the addition of 35.6 gallons of fuel to the aircraft the day prior to the accident flight.

The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft rehearse and condition themselves to be able to effectively change tanks in flight and verify the proper position of the fuel tank. Rehearsal and conditioning should also be accomplished such that any pilot becomes conditioned to switch the fuel tank selector back to the last known previous position at the first sign of any abnormal. Rehearsal and conditioning should also be such that pilot response is always instant and proper during the loss of power in flight, and that emphasis should be placed on landing of field wings level, gear up, and without stalling the aircraft.