Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's failure to properly judge the airplane fuel supply. The resultant loss of engine power occurred over unsuitable terrain, which was a contributing factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that while in cruise flight, the airplane's engine lost total power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot reported that this was his second flight in the airplane. He said that he misjudged the fuel quantity.
Source record
Factual narrative
On June 5, 1995, about 1530 eastern daylight time, a Devaughn Teenie II, N6783, an experimental, homebuilt airplane lost total engine power while in cruise flight. The airplane impacted trees during the emergency descent. The pilot received minor injuries. The airplane was destroyed. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The local flight departed Timber Ridge Airpark near Winchester, Virginia, and was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. The pilot reported that this was his second flight in the airplane. He reported, "Gas gauge on plane is a float [and] wire in the gas tank. Underestimated amount of fuel. Engine quit [and] with only 18' wing span had very little glide [and] was forced to land in trees." The pilot stated that the airplane impacted trees and the fuselage came to rest in the trees upside down. He stated the airplane's wings were torn away from the fuselage during the descent through the trees. -