Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's improper preflight fuel planning, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent total loss of engine power.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the approach to the destination airport, the engine lost power. He attempted to restart the engine to no avail, and the airplane impacted a perimeter fence short of the runway. The pilot added that postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that it had run out of fuel. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during the approach to the destination airport, the engine lost power. Despite his attempt, he could not restart the engine and the airplane impacted a perimeter fence short of the runway. The pilot stated that the examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that he ran out of gas. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.