Flight Details
The pilot departed Newport News, Virginia on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight destined for South Boston, Virginia. Later, at dusk, he contacted the Roanoke Flight Service Station (FSS) and requested an “accurate fix” of his position. During this communication, the pilot indicated that he was low on fuel.
Radar and Navigation
FSS personnel reported that the aircraft was not equipped with a transponder and was below the acquisition altitude for radar identification. Consequently, the pilot was requested to tune the VOR for radial cross checks. Subsequently, the FSS provided vectors to the airport at Lynchburg, Virginia.
Arrival and Landing
During the arrival, the pilot gave way to another aircraft that was not in radio contact with the FSS. While on final approach, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion, and the pilot landed the airplane about 100 feet short of the runway.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that he did not visually inspect the fuel tanks before departing from Newport News. He also verified that he was tracking inbound to South Boston when he contacted the FSS in flight, and that he was not lost.