Preflight Planning
During the preflight inspection, the pilot determined that the aircraft had sufficient fuel—65 gallons—for the planned cross-country flight. He filed a VFR flight plan with an estimated flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes. The plan included an en route stop for deplaning passengers and a final destination where refueling was intended.
Flight and Emergency Declaration
The actual flight time was 2.9 hours. While on final approach at the destination airport, the pilot transmitted, in part: "I'm declaring an emergency I'm running out of fuel." Shortly thereafter, radar contact with the aircraft was lost, and no further transmissions were received from the pilot.
Landing and Accident Sequence
The airplane landed in a field short of the runway. During the landing roll in the field, the aircraft struck a berm, nosed over, and came to rest inverted.
Pilot's Safety Recommendation
On the Owner/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) safety recommendation block, the pilot recommended, in part: "Have more fuel on board."