Flight Details
The flight departed with full fuel tanks. During cruise, the pilot noted that the fuel gauge needles were bouncing and indicating between empty and one-quarter full. The flight continued.
Engine Failure and Landing
About five to six minutes later, and 3 hours 6 minutes into the flight, the engine quit. The pilot initiated an emergency descent. While over unsuitable terrain, he landed the airplane in trees.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination revealed that the left wing had separated from the aircraft; its fuel tank contained approximately one-quarter cup of fuel. The right wing remained attached, and its fuel tank was found empty. No fuel stains were noted aft of each fuel cap or aft of each fuel tank sump drain fitting. The estimated time en route was calculated to be 3 hours 13 minutes. The pilot stated that historically the fuel consumption is 12.5 to 13.0 gallons per hour. No determination could be made as to the reason for the excess fuel consumption.