On December 16, 1992, a Beech 76 (registration N38037) operated by Marshall Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Savannah, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POOR PREFLIGHT AND INFLIGHT PLANNING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported the aircraft was extremely low on fuel before both engines lost power, leading to an emergency landing attempt. The flight departed at 2035 EST and the accident occurred at 0205 EST.
Flight Preparation
The flight departed Allegheny Airport at 2035 Eastern Standard Time. Prior to departure, the pilot received a full weather briefing, which included a winds aloft forecast. The pilot estimated that the fuel onboard would be sufficient for six hours of flight. However, the Pilot's Operating Handbook for the aircraft indicates that the endurance at the altitude and power settings used is five hours and thirty minutes.
Accident Sequence
The accident occurred at 0205 Eastern Standard Time. The pilot reported that the aircraft was extremely low on fuel prior to the accident, and that both engines lost power prior to the emergency landing attempt.