Flight Details
A business cross-country flight was in progress when the pilot reported being aware of a low fuel status while en route. Despite this awareness, the pilot indicated that he thought he could continue to the final destination without making an intermediate fuel stop.
Approach and Descent
The flight was cleared to descend when it was approximately 96 miles from the airport. While descending, at about 16 to 18 miles from the airport, the engine lost power. The pilot, feeling that the airplane was high on the approach, extended the landing gear and lowered one notch of flaps.
Accident Sequence
At approximately half a mile from the runway, the airplane began to descend below the intended glide path. Unable to reach the runway, the airplane touched down approximately 200 feet short of the runway, and during the landing roll, it collided with the terrain.
Pilot's Report
After the accident, the pilot reported that he apparently did not have as much fuel on board as he had thought before takeoff, and that he misjudged the approach by lowering the landing gear too soon.