Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate preflight preparation in that he failed to refuel the aircraft prior to departure.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The aircraft was in the landing pattern when the pilot reported to controllers in the control tower that the engine had quit. The aircraft collided with a berm short of the runway while attempting a power off forced landing on the runway. FAA airworthiness inspectors examined the aircraft. They reported that the fuel system was intact, with no breaks or leaks detected. No fuel was found in the tanks or system lines, and, only residual fuel was found in the fuel gascolator. In a statement to FAA inspectors the pilot reported that he flew five separate flights on the day of the accident totalling two hours and 50 minutes. The pilot said he began the day with a full fuel tank and used the fuel gage to quantify the fuel remaining in the tank. Fuel was available at the airport the pilot was operating from.
Source record
Factual narrative
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