Flight Details
A pilot was flying an aircraft from Devine, Texas, to Montana on behalf of the owner. Before departure, the pilot received approximately half an hour of dual instruction in the aircraft. Several en route stops were made during the flight.
Fuel Management
The pilot reported checking fuel consumption while flying from point to point. Upon landing at San Angelo, Texas, the fuel gauge indicated just under half full. The pilot decided to continue to Big Springs, Texas, believing that the remaining fuel would provide 30 minutes of flight time.
Loss of Engine Power
While en route to Big Springs, with the fuel gauge indicating about one-quarter full, the engine lost power. The pilot executed an emergency landing on a road. After touchdown, the left wing struck trees located beside the roadway.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the fuel tank was empty at the time of the incident, even though the fuel gauge still indicated one-quarter full. The discrepancy between the gauge reading and the actual fuel quantity was noted.