Page:Aviation Accident Investigation - Knowles Flying Service - 18 May 1935.pdf/2

Rh An inspection disclosed that there were 22 gallons of fuel remaining, 11 in each of the two tanks. Experience has proven that this is sufficient fuel level to keep the three engines running while flying in the level position but is not sufficient head when the plane is in the climb.

There was ample room for a reasonably safe for slanting ahead and slightly to the right of the pilots from the position of when he first experienced engine trouble. A landing in one of these fields would have been far less hazardous than the pilot’s attempts to return to the airport under existing conditions.

It is the opinion of the Accident Board that’s the probable cause of this accident was carelessness and negligence on the part of the pilot for not replenishing his fuel supply before it got dangerously low and poor judgment on his part for attempting to return to the airport when there was open terrain ahead of him.

Respectfully submitted,

Eugene L. Vidal,

Director of Air Commerce.