Incident Details
A pilot operating a Cessna T188C "Ag Husky" departed from his origin airport at approximately 0500 with 52 gallons of usable fuel. He flew 56 nautical miles to the first agricultural spray site, where insecticide was dispensed. After completion, he proceeded 29 nautical miles to the next dispensing site, followed by a 16-nautical-mile flight to an intended refueling point. While on short final approach to Runway 23 at approximately 0720, the engine lost power, and the pilot executed a hard forced landing short of the runway.
Post-Crash Examination
Following the accident, FAA inspectors examined the aircraft and found a total of 7 to 8 ounces of fuel aboard. For reference, the Cessna T188C Information Manual specifies that at 6,500 feet above sea level and 75% power, the aircraft has a range of 250 miles or 2.1 hours of flight time.