Flight History
Before departure, the pilot visually inspected the fuel tanks and used fuel burn calculations from the previous flight to estimate approximately 30 gallons of fuel onboard. The airplane took off and initially drew fuel from the left tank.
Fuel Management During Flight
While en route, the pilot observed that the left fuel gauge indicated empty and switched the fuel selector to the right tank. Concerned about low fuel, the pilot decided to divert to a nearby airport for refueling. Prior to landing, the pilot switched the fuel selector back to the left tank.
Go-Around and Engine Failure
On final approach, the pilot elected to perform a go-around with full flaps. The airplane climbed to about 30 feet and continued for approximately half a mile before turning back toward the airport. Upon completion of the turn, the engine lost total power.
Loss of Control and Impact
After the engine failed, the airplane lost altitude, stalled, and impacted trees. The impact ruptured both fuel tanks. Investigators found approximately one gallon of fuel spill on the pavement beneath each ruptured tank. However, there was no evidence of fuel spillage in the immediate area where the tanks were ruptured, and no fuel was observed inside the fuel tanks.
Investigation Findings
The investigation noted that the pilot had visually assessed fuel quantity but did not verify it with other means. The fuel exhaustion led to the engine failure. No other causal factors were identified in the report.