Incident Overview
Earlier in the day, the pilot operated a flight from Orlando, Florida to Lakeland, Florida. He did not visually inspect the fuel tank levels before departing, relying solely on his fuel quantity estimates and the aircraft's fuel gauges. After arriving in Lakeland, he did not check the fuel visually before initiating the return flight.
Return Flight and Engine Malfunction
On the return flight, the pilot again took off without visually confirming the fuel amount. While en route, the engines began running roughly, prompting the pilot to decide to land at Kissimmee, Florida as a precautionary measure.
Loss of Power and Emergency Landing
During the approach to Kissimmee Airport, both engines lost power. The pilot was compelled to perform a forced landing. The aircraft touched down approximately 600 to 700 yards short of the intended runway. During the landing rollout, the aircraft struck a tree.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the aircraft ran out of fuel, explaining the loss of engine power and the forced landing.