Incident Summary
A commercial pilot departed a private lake in a float-equipped airplane for a flight across a 12-mile-wide expanse of water. His intention was to pick up two friends staying at a cabin, whom he had dropped off the previous day. The airplane did not arrive at the lake and was reported overdue.
Discovery of Pilot
Six days later, the pilot's body was found along the shore of the area of water he intended to cross. He was wearing a flotation cushion that was carried in the airplane. The cause of death was determined to be hypothermia and drowning. The airplane has not been found.
Engine History
For several months before the accident, the airplane experienced recurring engine roughness, backfiring, and several engine fires during start-up. During an annual inspection one month before the accident, a mechanic installed a six-point engine primer system. Passengers who flew in the airplane within two days of the accident commented that the engine would backfire when the throttle was reduced.
Fuel Details
One day before the accident, prior to flying the two friends to the cabin, the pilot purchased 20 gallons of automotive fuel and poured it into the right wing fuel tank. During taxi for departure, the engine quit, and the pilot had difficulty restarting the engine. Automotive fuel is not recommended or approved for the engine.