Flight Details
A pilot was participating in an open course air race with a destination of Jackpot, Nevada. He planned an en route stop at Arco, Idaho, to refuel. The weather forecast indicated marginal conditions, but the pilot telephoned Arco and confirmed that the weather at that time was visual flight rules (VFR). Based on that information, he proceeded with the flight.
Fuel Planning
Due to weight considerations, the pilot departed with only 38 gallons of fuel on board. According to the owner's manual, this fuel quantity would have provided approximately 4.9 hours of flight time.
Weather and Diversion
Upon arriving in the area of Arco, a heavy rain shower prevented the pilot from landing. He decided to continue to Burley, Idaho, as an alternate stopping point.
Engine Failure and Landing
Before reaching Burley, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The total engine operation time was approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes. Following the power loss, the pilot performed a landing on rough terrain, which resulted in damage to the aircraft.
Post-Accident Examination
After the event, less than one pint of fuel was found in the fuel tanks, confirming fuel exhaustion as the reason for the engine failure.