On May 1, 1989, a Cessna 320D (registration N132BC) was involved in an aviation accident near Wixom, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Both engines of a Cessna 320D failed due to fuel exhaustion while maneuvering for aerial photography. The pilot declared an emergency and was vectored to the nearest airport but executed a forced landing in a wooded area.
Accident Description
The accident involved a Cessna 320D that was being operated for the purpose of taking aerial photographs. During the execution of these photographic maneuvers, both engines of the aircraft ceased to function because the fuel supply had been completely exhausted. Upon recognizing the engine failure, the pilot issued an emergency declaration and was subsequently guided by air traffic control towards the nearest available airport. However, the aircraft proved unable to reach the airport's runway, compelling the pilot to perform a forced landing in a wooded area. This location was situated approximately half a mile to the southeast of the airport.
Pilot Statement
In the aftermath of the incident, the pilot stated that he had neglected to check the quantity of fuel on board during the preflight inspection, which was conducted prior to departure.