Incident Overview
On final approach, the pilot of the twin-engine aircraft reported descending through 1,200 feet MSL when he selected the electric fuel pumps to the low position. Within seconds, he heard a backfire and lost power on both engines. He verified the engine fuel mixture controls and fuel tank selector were in the proper positions, then executed an off-airport forced landing in a marsh short of the runway.
Post-Accident Findings
FAA inspectors examined the aircraft and found the main fuel tanks were three-quarters full, while the auxiliary and wing locker fuel tanks were empty. The pilot's biennial flight review was determined to be six months past due.
Fuel System Details
The aircraft's fuel system configuration and the pilot's actions during the approach are central to the event. The pilot reported that the power loss occurred immediately after switching the electric fuel pumps to low. The discrepancy between the full main tanks and empty auxiliary/wing locker tanks suggests a possible fuel management issue.
Regulatory Compliance
The FAA noted that the pilot's biennial flight review (BFR) had expired by six months at the time of the accident. While this does not directly explain the engine failure, it indicates a lapse in regulatory compliance.