Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a flight from Eutaw to Seale, Alabama for a parachute activity experienced a fuel exhaustion event on the return leg. The aircraft, though equipped for parachuting, was not used for that purpose during the trip. After completing the activity in Seale, the pilot checked the fuel level using a dipstick and estimated that sufficient fuel remained for the 1.1-hour return flight to Eutaw. The pilot did not check weather conditions or refuel the aircraft before departure.
Sequence of Events
En route to Eutaw, the pilot encountered clouds, darkness, and heavy rain showers. While deviating from the planned course to avoid these conditions, the pilot lost track of the aircraft's position and noted that the fuel supply was becoming low. The pilot decided to divert to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. However, during the approach to the airport, the fuel was exhausted. The aircraft then struck trees approximately half a mile from the runway during a forced landing.
Passenger Safety and Injuries
The aircraft had no seat or seat belt available for the passenger. Despite the lack of restraint, the passenger received only minor injuries in the accident. The extent of injuries to the pilot was not reported in the source material.