The pilot’s improper preflight planning/preparation, and his failure to abort the takeoff. The tailwind and a short runway were contributing factors.
NTSB
New prop throws off pilot’s fuel calculations
Loss of engine power resulting from fuel exhaustion due to the pilot’s failure to refuel the aircraft en route.
Flat tire contributes to crash
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing with a flat main tire.
Landing gear hits runway sign
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance, resulting in an in-flight collision with an airport sign.
Student pilot’s crosswind landing goes awry
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. Factors included a 90° crosswind, and the student pilot’s improper in-flight decision to land on a runway with the crosswind rather than on an available runway with a headwind.
Landing gear malfunctions
The pilot’s failure to properly execute the manual landing gear extension procedures. The electrical system failure was a factor.
Preliminary report released on Fossett crash
Based on weather reports and statements from pilots who were flying in the vicinity on the day of Fossett’s disappearance, investigators determined that there were downdrafts in excess of 300 feet per minute in the vicinity.
Student pilot hits snowbank on takeoff
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which led to the impact with the snow banks.
Banner-towing flight ends with forced landing on beach
The loss of engine power due to undetermined reasons. A factor in the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow emergency procedures when he failed to jettison the advertising banner prior to his forced landing in water.