Primary finding
Probable cause
Mismanagement of fuel, which resulted in a total loss of power due to fuel starvation.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot performed a preflight of the airplane, to include fuel selector valves in preparation of an upcoming trip. The purpose of the accident flight was to reposition to another airport where fuel was available to refuel the airplane. Approximately 30 minutes into the repositioning flight the left engine began to surge and then quit, followed by the right engine quitting. The pilot was unable to troubleshoot the situation due to his altitude and performed an emergency landing. The airplane was substantially damaged during the landing. The pilot shutdown the airplane and egressed, positioning the fuel selectors to OFF in the process. Examination of the airplane revealed fuel present in the main tanks and both axillary tanks were empty. No anomalies were noted with airplane or engines. The circumstances of the accident are consistent with fuel starvation due to mismanagement of fuel inflight.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot performed a preflight of the airplane, to include fuel selector valves in preparation of an upcoming trip. The purpose of the accident flight was to reposition to another airport where fuel was available to refuel the airplane. Approximately 30 minutes into the repositioning flight the left engine began to surge and then quit, followed by the right engine quitting. The pilot was unable to troubleshoot the situation due to his altitude and performed an emergency landing. The airplane was substantially damaged during the landing. The pilot shutdown the airplane and egressed, positioning the fuel selectors to OFF in the process. Examination of the airplane revealed fuel present in the main tanks and both axillary tanks were empty. No anomalies were noted with airplane or engines.