Communication and Approach
According to the investigation, the pilot contacted the airport via UNICOM and asked for directions, stating he needed fuel and inquiring about fuel availability. The airport provided directions and asked if the pilot had landed there before. The pilot replied that he had not, and asked about the traffic pattern. The pattern was explained to him.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft approaching the airport from the northeast, flying down a valley. The pilot attempted to execute a turn within the valley but overshot the turn and collided with the rock face of a cut on the east side of the airport.
Fuel Status
Post-accident examination revealed less than one gallon of fuel in the left wing and no fuel in the right wing. Records showed that only 7 gallons of fuel had been added at Kay Larkin Airport. Normal fuel consumption for the aircraft is 10.8 gallons per hour.
Passenger Statement
The passenger stated that they were heading north toward home and did not have a refueling stop planned at any specific place. No flight plan was filed. The aircraft had flown approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes on the day prior to the accident.