Primary finding
Probable cause
The failure of the pilot in command to place the fuel selector on the fullest tank, resulting in an engine failure due to fuel starvation over unsuitable terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot and one passenger departed on a 2 hour flight with about 20 gallons of fuel in each fuel tank. The airplane was not found until 2 days later, burned in a wooded area. The fuel consumption for 2 hours would be about 19 gallons. The fuel selector was found on the left tank and the left wing exhibited less fire damage than the right wing. No evidence of powerplant or airframe preexisting failures were found.
Source record
Factual narrative
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