Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's poor fuel consumption calculations. Contributing to this accident was the downsloping terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Before departing on the accident flight the pilot reported that the fuel tanks were full and calculated the total fuel on board was equivalent to 4.2 hours. The investigation revealed that since the last refueling, the airplane flew 0.8 hours. The pilot flew to two different airports before returning to the home base. He also performed two or three takeoffs and landings at the itinerary airports. About 30 minutes after departing the last itinerary airport the engine sustained a total loss of power. The airplane collided with a vehicle during the ensuing emergency landing. The wreckage examination disclosed the airplane contained about 1 3/4 gallons of fuel in the left wing tank. The right wing tank was empty.
Source record
Factual narrative
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