Event Overview
A pilot conducting a round-robin cross-country flight experienced a fuel exhaustion event while on final approach to the initial departure point. The sequence began after the pilot arrived at his initial destination and found the runway closed for repairs. He then retraced his outbound route in search of fuel.
Attempts to Refuel
The pilot landed at an agricultural airstrip but determined that no fuel was available there. Following departure from that location, he attempted to land at a municipal airport in a nearby town but was unable to locate the runway. Subsequently, he decided to return to his starting point without refueling.
Forced Landing
While on final approach to the initial departure airport, the aircraft's engine ceased due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot executed a forced landing on a nearby gravel beach. The touchdown was uneventful, but during the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over on the soft terrain.
Pilot Accounting
According to the pilot, he did not keep an accurate tally of his fuel burn and total time airborne. He also failed to account for a one hour and forty minute flight conducted on the previous day when considering his fuel situation en route. Additionally, it was determined that the fuel quantity gauges did not accurately reflect the total amount of fuel onboard while airborne.