On June 20, 1989, a Cessna 340 (registration N69549) was involved in an aviation accident near Paso Robles, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER USE (MISMANAGEMENT) OF THE FUEL SYSTEM BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION. RELATED FACTORS WERE: THE LACK OF FUEL QUANTITY INDICATORS (NOT INSTALLED) IN THE AIRCRAFT, FLIGHT BY THE PILOT WITH THIS KNOWN DEFICIENCY, AND TREES IN THE… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach, both engines lost power; pilot attempted to switch to auxiliary fuel but could not restore power. Investigation found main tanks empty, auxiliary tanks full, and no fuel quantity indicators installed.
Incident Details
While the airplane was on final approach for landing, both engines experienced a loss of power. The pilot immediately moved the boost pump switches to the high position and switched the fuel selector valves to the auxiliary tanks, but these actions did not restore power. Recognizing that there was insufficient altitude to reach the runway, the pilot maneuvered the airplane to avoid some structures, but the aircraft subsequently collided with trees.
Investigation Findings
An investigation into the incident revealed that no fuel quantity indicators were installed in the airplane. Additionally, the main fuel tanks were found to be empty, while both auxiliary fuel tanks were full.
Aircraft Manual Specifications
According to the owner's manual, the auxiliary fuel supply was designated for use only during cruise flight. The manual further stated that if an engine or an engine-driven fuel pump failed, fuel would not be available from the respective auxiliary tank.