Flight Overview
A pilot conducted a flight from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Daytona Beach, Florida, and then to Sanford, Florida, without refueling en route. The pilot had initially planned to obtain fuel at Sanford, but after landing there, believed there was sufficient fuel to return directly to Charlotte.
Diversion and Delay
As the flight continued northward, the pilot encountered fog and diverted to Jesup, Georgia. Upon arrival, the airport facilities were closed, and no fuel was obtained. The pilot waited several hours at Jesup, periodically checking weather conditions.
Final Approach
After departing Jesup, the pilot contacted Charlotte Approach Control, reporting being on top at 1,800 feet and requesting radar vectors to Charlotte. The controller advised that Charlotte was under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions. The pilot then diverted toward Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Fuel Exhaustion and Landing
While en route to Spartanburg, the aircraft exhausted its fuel supply. The pilot executed a forced landing in a wooded area, during which the aircraft collided with trees.