Primary finding
Probable cause
Poor preflight planning and preparation along with the pilot's failure to assure an adequate fuel supply to complete the flight. A factor related to the accident was the downdraft encountered.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot departed for the 30 minute flight with 8 gallons of fuel. On short final at his destination, a loss of engine power was experienced. The pilot reported that a downdraft forced the airplane into trees while he was attempting to make it to the runway. The pilot and passenger evacuated the airplane after which time it descended to the ground. Post accident inspection revealed 2 3/4 gallons of fuel remaining in the airplane. Unusable fuel load for the airplane is 3 1/2 gallons.
Source record
Factual narrative
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