Flight Departure and Fuel Considerations
The flight departed with less than full fuel due to weight and balance considerations. While en route, the pilot recognized a fuel shortage condition existed when the aircraft was near an airport with an ILS approach. Despite this, the flight continued.
ATC Communication and Fuel Declaration
The pilot advised that frequency congestion increased and air traffic control (ATC) was transferred to several sectors. The pilot then declared minimum fuel to the controller after being advised that the flight was 50 miles from the planned destination. In response, the controller vectored the flight to a nearby airport with an instrument approach.
Engine Sputtering and Emergency Declaration
While descending toward that airport, the engine sputtered momentarily and then regained power when the fuel selector was positioned to the opposite tank. The pilot declared an emergency, and the flight was vectored directly toward the airport. After descending below the base of the clouds, the engine again sputtered.
Landing and Collision with Terrain
The pilot landed the airplane in a field with uneven terrain. The airplane collided with an elevated gravel road, separating the nose gear, and became airborne. The airplane touched down again, and the left main landing gear collapsed.
Postcrash Examination
Postcrash examination revealed that the fuel selector was positioned to the right fuel tank, which was found to contain 3.5 gallons of fuel. The left wing fuel tank was empty.