Incident Overview
A pilot was cruising at 13,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) during a cross-country flight when both engines lost power. The pilot had been using fuel from the main tanks for approximately ten minutes after having used the auxiliary tanks for the preceding hour. The first power loss occurred shortly after the pilot encountered light icing conditions.
Actions Taken
After the initial power loss, the pilot successfully restarted both engines using the auxiliary tanks and continued flying on those tanks until they ran dry. The pilot then switched back to the main tanks. Approximately three minutes later, the engines lost power again.
Communication and Decision
Following the first power loss, Albuquerque Center offered to vector the aircraft to Globe Airport, but the pilot elected to continue to Phoenix instead. After the second loss of power, the pilot performed an off-airport landing on a sand bar.
Outcome and Examination
The pilot was not injured during the incident. A subsequent examination of the engines and fuel system failed to reveal any reason for the power loss.