Incident Overview
A pilot flying a twin-engine aircraft reported a loss of power from the front engine while in cruise flight at 4,500 feet, approximately 45 minutes after takeoff. The pilot estimated that the aircraft had about 35 gallons of fuel at departure. Despite unsuccessful restart attempts, he did not declare an emergency, believing the issue was water contamination based on past experience. The aircraft remained controllable on the rear engine, maintaining 120 knots, with the destination (Fort Pierce, Florida) only 10 miles away.
Approach and Second Engine Failure
The pilot contacted Fort Pierce Air Traffic Control Tower and entered a right base for runway 09. He lowered the landing gear, set 10 degrees of flaps, and was on final approach at about 600 feet when the rear engine also ceased operating. With no suitable landing area aside from a small field to the right, the pilot turned 90 degrees and entered a dive to prevent a stall.
Impact and Post-Accident Findings
The aircraft struck an orange grove, rebounded once, and came to rest in a canal. The pilot attributed both engine failures to fuel starvation, stating that the airplane had not been loaded with enough fuel. He noted no mechanical failures or malfunctions before the accident. An FAA inspector examined the scene and found no fuel in the tanks and minimal fuel present at the site.