Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a total loss of engine power during descent.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot departed with an estimated 5 gallons of fuel, and had begun his descent to his destination airport when the engine lost all power. He established best glide speed and made a forced landing to an open stretch of road. The airplane touched down hard, spun 180 degrees, and came to rest in a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot stated that there was very little fuel found in the fuel tanks during recovery of the wreckage and that he believes he may have run out of fuel.
Source record
Factual narrative
The private pilot departed with an estimated 5 gallons of fuel, and had begun his descent to his destination airport, when all engine power was lost. He established best glide speed, and made a forced landing to an open stretch of road. The airplane touchdown hard, spun 180 degrees, and came to rest in a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. During a telephone conversation with the National Transportation Safety Board, investigator-in-charge on June 15, the pilot stated there was very little fuel found in the fuel tanks during recovery of the wreckage, and he believes he may have run out of fuel.