Flight Details
The pilot departed on a glider tow flight with a glider in tow. Shortly after departure, the engine began running rough. The pilot informed the glider pilot of the intention to release the tow and return to the departure airport. The release was executed, and the pilot turned toward the airport.
Loss of Engine Power
While en route back, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot determined the cause to be fuel exhaustion. He declared an emergency on the UNICOM radio frequency and initiated a forced landing approach to runway 05.
Communication Conflict
During the approach, the pilot heard a Learjet pilot announce that he was taking runway 23. The pilot immediately made a call on the UNICOM frequency requesting the Learjet to hold his position; no response was received. He then observed the Learjet taxi onto the runway. A second call to the Learjet also went unanswered.
Final Maneuver and Impact
In response to the Learjet's movement, the pilot began a turn toward a closed runway. During this turn, the landing gear collided with trees, and the airplane subsequently crashed on the apron of the closed runway.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the engine power loss resulted from fuel exhaustion. No additional causal factors were identified.