Overview
An aircraft experienced engine power loss and landed short of runway 13R at Boeing Field following a loss of power due to fuel exhaustion. The aircraft had been topped off with a total of 108 gallons of fuel before the third leg of a cross-country flight.
Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that the engine ceased operating en route, but power was regained when the fuel selector was switched from the right to the left main tank. While being vectored for an instrument landing system approach to Tacoma Airport, the engine ceased operating once again. Upon breaking out of the overcast, the pilot spotted Boeing Field and attempted the landing there.
Post-Accident Findings
After the accident, both the left and right main tanks and the auxiliary tank were found empty. Fuel stains were visible behind the refueling caps on both main tanks. The right main fuel cap was tested and found to leak severely, while the left fuel cap tested normal. Compliance with Airworthiness Directive 84-10-01, which addresses leakage around the filler caps, was reported to have been completed two days prior to the accident. Additionally, the bladder in the left main tank was found stuck up around the neck of the filler opening.