What happened
Shortly after initiating takeoff, the left engine of the aircraft ceased operating. The pilot attempted a shallow turn back toward the airport to return to the runway. During this maneuver, the right engine also stopped running. With both engines inoperative, the pilot selected an open field for a forced landing. Upon touchdown, the aircraft sustained significant damage due to a hard landing.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the aircraft revealed critical details regarding the fuel system configuration at the time of the incident. The investigation determined that the pilot had taken off using the auxiliary fuel tanks rather than the main tanks. Fuel quantity checks showed that the right auxiliary tank contained only 1.5 gallons and the left auxiliary tank held 3 gallons. No fuel was found within either engine's fuel system, confirming they had run dry.
Findings
The primary factors leading to the accident were the fuel exhaustion of both engines and the pilot's decision to operate on the auxiliary fuel tanks. The main fuel tanks contained substantial reserves, with 29 gallons in the right tank and 24 gallons in the left, indicating that sufficient fuel was available had the correct selectors been used.
Safety message
Pilots must verify fuel quantity and tank selection before takeoff. Relying on auxiliary tanks for initial climb-out can be dangerous if those tanks are low or empty, as they may not provide adequate fuel volume for the flight phase.