Goyer, Robert. "Avoiding Cruise Catastrophe." Flying February 2014: 41-46.

[PTK]

A very good and thought provoking article.

I thought it was interesting to learn that the number one cause of GA accidents in the cruise phase is running out of fuel!

Even today with all the gadgets and timers we have in the cockpit.

[aviatoreb]

I would have guessed vfr into imc would have topped the list for cruise phase.

[Smiles201]

Vfr into imc, spatial disorientation, is number one fatal accident cause

[jetdriven]

The number one cause of accidents is loss of control during takeoff and landing. All the AOA and other gadgets can't replace basic airmanship.

[aviatoreb]

The number one cause of accidents is loss of control during takeoff and landing. All the AOA and other gadgets can't replace basic airmanship.

 

Yes, but the discussion was premised on "in cruise phase".

[jetdriven]

As I'd likely agree that fuel mismanagement is probably the top if the list in cruise. I have been teaching turning off the fuel selector in cruise or pulling the mixture and even after briefing it, I have a non-functioning pilot at the controls, they are so startled by it.

[FAST FLIGHT OPTIONS LLC]

I'm confused. Why would you turn the fuel selector to the off position in cruise ?

[jetdriven]

If you have an engine fire it's in the POH. Also, it correctly simulates running a tank dry, which is something that startles many pilots, and causes accidents. If you go through the steps to relight the thing, all of a sudden it's not so scary anymore.

[FAST FLIGHT OPTIONS LLC]

I'd want to rent a twin to practice that kind of thing...just sayin