Flight Itinerary
The pilot was hired to fly the aircraft from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Little Rock, Arkansas, to Gulf Shores, Alabama, for prospective buyers to examine the aircraft, and then to return to Tulsa. After takeoff from Tulsa International Airport, the tower advised the pilot that smoke was coming from the aircraft. He returned to the airport and had the aircraft checked for the source of smoke. He was informed that the aircraft had a Riley Intercooler Conversion, which dictated that the mixture be leaned for takeoff. He then departed with no apparent problem.
At Gulf Shores, the pilot demonstrated the aircraft, and 25 gallons of fuel were added. He then departed Gulf Shores for a night, cross-country flight back to Tulsa.
Diversion and Forced Landing
The pilot diverted to Fort Smith Regional Airport, Fort Smith, Arkansas for fuel. Nine gallons of fuel were added, and then he departed for Tulsa. Subsequently, the airplane was damaged during a forced landing at night at the Davis Airport, Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Fuel Analysis
The total fuel drained from all of the fuel tanks was 1.5 gallons, and there was no evidence of fuel spillage. Investigation showed that 154 gallons of fuel were available for the mission. Estimated fuel required to reach Muskogee with no reserve was 154 gallons.