What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft's engine failed shortly after he had just released a load of logs and began transitioning into forward flight. Upon inspection, it was determined that there was no usable fuel remaining on board. The pilot noted that the fuel gauge indicated approximately 50 pounds of fuel at the moment the engine stopped.
The investigation
A mechanical examination was conducted to determine the cause of the fuel loss. A leak test was performed on the fuel suction hose, which connects the inlet port of the fuel boost pump to the fuel pickup line inside the fuel tank. The test disclosed a leak in this component.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the incident were fuel exhaustion and a mechanical failure in the fuel system. Specifically, a leak in the fuel suction hose allowed fuel to escape before it could be utilized by the engine. Although the gauge showed residual fuel, the leak rendered it unusable for propulsion.