On December 17, 1984, a Cessna 421C (registration N6865D) was involved in an aviation accident near Vancourt, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After departing into known IFR conditions below approach minimums with inadequate fuel, the pilot experienced a double engine power loss due to fuel exhaustion and performed a gear-up forced landing on a highway after ATC assistance.
Background
The pilot obtained a complete weather briefing before departure.
Flight Details
The pilot departed into known instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions that were well below the approach minimums at the destination airport. The aircraft carried inadequate fuel reserves and had no filed alternate airport. After two missed approaches at the destination, the pilot's desired alternate airport was also below minimums.
Incident
En route to a second alternate airport, the aircraft experienced a double engine power loss due to fuel exhaustion.
Landing
A gear-up forced landing was performed on a highway. Air traffic control (ATC) personnel assisted the pilot in establishing visual contact with the ground before the landing.