On October 9, 1996, a Cessna 310Q (registration N7833Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Truckee, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate preflight planning/preparation and fuel consumption calculations resulting in fuel exhaustion. The pilot's failure to switch the fuel tanks to the auxiliary position and feather both propellers were factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach, the pilot switched fuel tanks, leading to total power loss in both engines. The emergency landing ended 450 feet short of the runway. Postaccident investigation found both main fuel tanks empty.
Incident Overview
While turning onto final approach with the landing gear extended, the pilot moved the fuel tank selector handles from the auxiliary fuel tanks to the main fuel tanks. Shortly after this action, both engines experienced a complete loss of power.
Pilot Response
The pilot activated the boost pumps in an attempt to restart the engines, but these efforts were unsuccessful. During the ensuing emergency landing, the pilot did not retract the landing gear or feather either propeller.
Landing and Impact
The aircraft touched down approximately 450 feet short of the runway. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that both main fuel tanks were empty. The impact sequence did not compromise the integrity of the main fuel tanks or their associated components.