What happened
The aircraft was being ferried to a new location, with an en route refueling stop originally planned. As the flight progressed, deteriorating weather conditions developed, characterized by a low ceiling and reduced visibility. In response to these adverse conditions, the pilot attempted to extend the flight path to reach a different town instead.
However, the fuel supply was exhausted approximately six miles short of the intended town. The aircraft subsequently landed in a wet, plowed field. Upon touchdown, the aircraft flipped over into an inverted position.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical state of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the landing. The primary finding was that the fuel had been completely exhausted prior to the final approach. No other mechanical failures were cited as contributing factors in the provided narrative.
Findings
The critical factor leading to the accident was fuel exhaustion. The pilot's decision to extend the flight to a different town, combined with the inability to reach the planned refueling stop or the alternate destination, resulted in the loss of engine power. The aircraft was forced to land in an unprepared field, which contributed to the severity of the impact and the subsequent inversion of the airframe.
Safety message
Pilots ferrying aircraft over unfamiliar terrain must carefully plan for weather deviations. Extending a flight path due to low ceilings and visibility requires sufficient fuel reserves to reach a suitable alternate airport. Running out of fuel six miles short of a destination highlights the necessity of strict fuel management and conservative diversion planning.