Incident Overview
A pilot flying a single-engine aircraft experienced an engine failure while attempting to land at a private airport after being vectored around thunderstorm activity. The pilot had previously informed approach control that fuel was low and intended to locate and land at the private field. As the aircraft approached, the engine lost power, and the subsequent forced landing resulted in the aircraft impacting trees approximately one mile south of the airport and coming to rest inverted.
Pilot Actions and Fuel Calculation Error
According to the pilot's written statement provided during the investigation, he had been calculating fuel consumption using miles per gallon rather than the correct method of gallons per hour. This miscalculation led to a misunderstanding of the fuel on board. During a telephone interview, the pilot confirmed that the airplane had run out of fuel, which caused the engine to stop.
Engine Examination and Maintenance Records
Following the incident, the engine was test-run and operated without any difficulties for approximately 30 minutes, indicating no pre-existing mechanical issues. However, an inspection of the engine and airframe logbooks revealed that the aircraft did not have a current annual inspection at the time of the flight. No further details regarding the maintenance status or compliance with inspection requirements were provided in the source.
Conclusion
The accident was the result of fuel exhaustion due to the pilot's erroneous fuel calculation method. The aircraft came to rest inverted among trees but no information about injuries or fatalities was included in the source.