On August 1, 1994, a Beech 33 (registration N7960M) was involved in an aviation accident near Wichita, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate management of the fuel which resulted in fuel starvation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced a total loss of engine power while on downwind leg for landing. Despite restart attempts, the engine only ran briefly. A forced landing was made in an adjacent field.
Sequence of Events
The pilot entered the airport traffic pattern in preparation for landing. While on the downwind leg, the airplane experienced a complete loss of engine power. The pilot stated that he immediately switched the selected fuel tank and turned the boost pump on. The engine restarted and ran for approximately three seconds before quitting again. The pilot then switched the selected fuel tank again and attempted to restart the engine without success. Subsequently, the pilot performed a forced landing on an adjacent field.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no fuel in the left tank and approximately 20 gallons of fuel in the right tank. The fuel selector handle was found to be 1/4 to 1/8 rotation out of the right fuel tank selection detent. An engine test run was performed after the accident. The engine started immediately and ran up to 2750 revolutions per minute without any incident.