Accident Overview
A pilot reported that the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power during an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to Gainesville, Florida. The incident occurred after the airplane had departed from Fayetteville, North Carolina. The pilot stated that the second pilot was flying the airplane from the left seat at the time of the approach.
Flight and Fueling
According to the pilot, prior to departure from Fayetteville, the airplane was fueled to the holes in the bottom of the filler collars, which should have provided about 42 gallons of fuel. The fuel tanks were not completely filled. The flight proceeded to Gainesville, where the crew elected to fly the ILS approach to give the second pilot practice.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
Approximately 3 miles from the runway, the engine lost power. The pilot turned on the electric fuel boost pump, and the engine regained power momentarily before sputtering and quitting. During the subsequent forced landing, the airplane collided with trees.
Postcrash Examination
Postcrash examination of the airplane and the crash site was conducted by an FAA Inspector, Fire Department personnel, and Sheriff's Department personnel. The examination revealed that the airplane contained no usable fuel. There was no evidence of fuel leakage from the airplane either at the crash site or during flight.