On December 19, 1992, a Beech C24R (registration N18942) operated by UC Flying Club, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Oakland, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Both pilots reported that they neglected to switch fuel tanks, inadvertently running the left fuel tank dry, which led to engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a checkout and instrument flight, both pilots reported failing to switch fuel tanks, causing the left tank to run dry. The instructor landed on a golf course after engine failure.
Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a private pilot departed on a two-hour flight intended for an aircraft checkout and instrument dual instruction. According to reports made by both pilots to FAA inspectors and Oakland police officers, they neglected to switch fuel tanks during the flight. While on final approach to Runway 27R, the left fuel tank inadvertently ran dry, causing the engine to fail.
Pilot Reports
Both pilots stated that they failed to switch fuel tanks, leading to the fuel starvation. The engine could not be restarted in time to complete the approach. The instructor then executed a forced landing on a golf course, during which the aircraft collided with ground obstructions.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector examined the aircraft after the incident. The inspection revealed that the left fuel tank was empty, while the right tank contained approximately 20 gallons of fuel. The private pilot was on his first flight in this type of aircraft.
Probable cause
Both pilots reported that they neglected to switch fuel tanks, inadvertently running the left fuel tank dry, which led to engine failure.