Flight Events
The pilot was navigating by pilotage and dead reckoning without any onboard navigation equipment. Upon reaching the destination area, low clouds and haze prevented identification of the intended airport. The pilot decided to check weather conditions at alternative airports and flew a few miles in that direction. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to sputter. The pilot switched the fuel selector and rocked the wings, but the engine stopped completely within moments.
Post-Accident Inspection
An inspection of the aircraft's fuel tanks revealed that both contained only residual fuel. The pilot was unable to produce a receipt for the last fuel purchase. Additionally, no pilot's operating handbook (POH) was present onboard the aircraft.
Flight Planning Details
The pilot had not estimated the time en route prior to departure and had not performed any over-the-ground speed checks during the flight. No fuel consumption calculations had been made. The flight was conducted without the use of electronic navigation aids, relying solely on visual references and dead reckoning.