Accident Summary
A certificated commercial pilot, accompanied by three passengers, departed from a remote lake in a float-equipped, single-engine airplane. While in level cruise flight, the engine began to run rough and subsequently lost power. The pilot performed emergency procedures, which restored partial engine power momentarily, but the engine then experienced a complete loss of power. The airplane collided with trees during the subsequent forced landing, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, and empennage.
Examination Findings
An FAA inspector examined the airplane and reported that both fuel tanks were empty. The inspector's examination did not reveal any other mechanical anomalies that could have caused the power loss.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the fuel gauges installed in the airplane consistently provided inaccurate fuel quantity readings. He stated that prior to departure, he visually checked the quantity of fuel in the wing fuel tanks using a fuel measuring device. However, he later added that the fuel level reading may have been in error due to the airplane's attitude while moored.