Flight Details
While en route, the aircraft's radio transmitter became inoperative. The pilot could still receive transmissions and was provided vectors toward the destination airport. The aircraft had flown approximately 4 hours and 6 minutes prior to the accident. Estimated fuel consumption for the flight was 60.27 gallons. The aircraft's fuel capacity was 60 gallons. The pilot, who was not instrument-rated, had been briefed to expect instrument meteorological conditions along the route. During the flight, he cruised at 8,000 feet. At Chattanooga, the ceiling was reported at 3,000 feet.
Engine Failure and Ditching
After starting a descent near the destination, the engine lost power. The pilot subsequently ditched the aircraft in the Tennessee River. The decision to perform a water landing was made because of the rough terrain and darkness. After the water landing, all four occupants exited the aircraft while it was still floating. According to the pilot, none of the occupants received injuries during the forced landing.
Post-Accident Findings
One passenger could not swim. That passenger and one other passenger were presumed to have drowned. After the aircraft was recovered, only river water was found in the fuel tanks.