On May 27, 1994, a Mooney M20E (registration N6942U) was involved in an aviation accident near Omaha, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: inaccurate fuel consumption calculations and the inadequate fuel supply for the flight. Factors related to the accident were the ditch and the quantity gage which gave a false indication. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, the pilot switched fuel tanks until the right tank ran dry, then returned to the left tank. The engine quit during descent, leading to a forced landing in a field where the airplane struck a ditch. Post-accident inspection found half a cup of fuel remaining, though the left tank gauge indicated 30 pounds.
Fuel Management and Engine Failure
The pilot conducted a cross-country flight, initially using the left fuel tank. Subsequently, he selected the right tank and continued until it ran dry, at which point he switched back to the left tank. After receiving clearance to descend toward the destination airport, the engine ceased operation.
Forced Landing and Post-Accident Findings
A forced landing was executed in a field. During the landing, the airplane contacted a ditch. Post-accident inspection revealed approximately half a cup of fuel remained on board the airplane. The left fuel tank quantity indicator displayed 30 pounds of fuel remaining.
Investigation
The investigation documented the sequence of fuel tank selections and the quantity of fuel found after the accident. No further details regarding the circumstances of the flight or the aircraft's condition were provided in the source material.