Accident Details
While engaged in aerial photography, the aircraft was circling at approximately 1,500 feet above ground level when the engine lost power. The pilot performed an emergency landing in a swampy area, during which the aircraft sustained damage.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the left fuel tank was empty. The right fuel tank contained an undetermined amount of fuel, which appeared to be more than the usable fuel quantity; however, the aircraft was resting on the ground with the right wing low.
Pilot Operating Handbook Note
The aircraft's Pilot Operating Handbook included a note regarding operation with the fuel selector set to BOTH. It indicated that unequal fuel flow from each tank could occur if the wings were not maintained exactly level. The note stated that resulting wing heaviness could be gradually alleviated by turning the selector valve handle to the tank in the 'heavy' wing.
The aircraft had been topped with fuel prior to the flight and had flown for 3.5 hours before the incident.