Incident Overview
A pilot reported that he visually verified the airplane had full fuel tanks before departure, estimating that would provide 6 hours of fuel endurance for the planned 4-hour 50-minute flight. During the approach to the destination, the engine began to miss. The pilot switched fuel tanks several times and rocked the airplane using rudder to search for more fuel. He attempted a forced landing at an airport prior to the destination, but the airplane crashed at the departure end of the landing runway.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of fuel. The Hobbs meter reflected 5.1 hours from the time of departure.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that before departure he visually confirmed the fuel tanks were full. He estimated the fuel endurance would be 6 hours, sufficient for the anticipated 4-hour 50-minute flight. When the engine began to miss, he attempted to remedy the situation by switching tanks and using rudder input to move fuel. Despite these efforts, a forced landing was necessary.
Aircraft Condition
The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, or other identifying details. No information was provided regarding the number of occupants, injuries, or damage beyond the crash occurrence.