Synopsis
A pilot practicing landings on his first solo flight in the aircraft model experienced a dual engine failure on final approach at approximately 700 feet above ground level. He subsequently landed the aircraft in a field short of the runway, resulting in substantial damage.
Investigation Findings
During the investigation, the pilot stated that he did not visually check the fuel tanks and did not use the auxiliary fuel boost pumps. Examination of the fuel system revealed that the right main fuel tank contained approximately 3/4 gallon and the left main fuel tank contained approximately 3 1/4 gallons. The right fuel tank gauge was found to read approximately 25 gallons high, while the left main fuel tank gauge read approximately 15 gallons high.
The Cessna flight handbook, as part of the before landing checklist, includes item #4: auxiliary fuel boost pumps on. According to the aircraft manufacturer, without using the auxiliary fuel boost pumps, any interruption of the fuel supply can cause the engine to experience fuel exhaustion.