Flight Details
The pilot planned a cross-country flight covering 593 statute miles in two legs. The pilot did not obtain a preflight weather briefing or determine the true airspeed, instead assuming that indicated airspeed equaled ground speed. The aircraft departed on the first leg with fuel tanks slightly less than full.
First Leg and Fuel Management
The first leg was completed uneventfully after 3.5 hours of flight. No fuel was purchased before departing on the second leg. The pilot reported that during the entire flight the mixture control remained in the full rich position.
Second Leg and Engine Failure
While nearing the destination airport, the engine quit due to fuel exhaustion. At that time, the fuel gauges indicated approximately 2 to 3 gallons remaining.
Forced Landing and Post-Accident Examination
During the descent for a forced landing, the airplane collided with trees and then the ground. Post-accident examination found no evidence of fuel leakage in flight. Approximately 4 ounces of fuel were drained from the carburetor and gascolator, while fuel lines in the engine compartment were empty. Only about half an ounce of fuel was drained from the right wing fuel tank. No engine failure or malfunction was noted. Subsequent fuel consumption calculations by FAA personnel determined that 47.79 gallons of fuel were used out of a total of 48 gallons of usable fuel.