Accident Details
The accident involved a commercial pilot who departed from a runway with both main fuel tanks indicating about one-quarter full. Shortly after takeoff, both engines lost power, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing on a tidal beach. The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Preflight Inspection
During preflight, the cockpit fuel quantity indicators showed both main tanks were about one-quarter full. The pilot did not visually verify the fuel level by climbing onto the wings, intending instead to make a short flight to Homer, Alaska, to purchase fuel.
Engine Failure
After departure from runway 34, at approximately 500 feet mean sea level, both engines began to run roughly, followed by a complete loss of engine power.
Forced Landing
The pilot executed a gear-up forced landing on a tidal beach. During the landing, the left wing struck a stand of trees, and the airplane landed hard on the beach.
Post-Accident Findings
An Alaska State Trooper responding to the accident found that both main fuel tanks were dry. The left auxiliary fuel tank contained a minimal amount of fuel, and the right auxiliary fuel tank was empty.