Incident Overview
A pilot reported experiencing fuel gauge fluctuations while flying at an altitude of 9,500 feet near Grand Turk. The gauges fluctuated over a 60-gallon range. Despite the fluctuation, the pilot continued the flight, trusting the flight planning.
Engine Failures
Approximately 40 nautical miles from Isla Grande Airport, the right engine sputtered. The pilot activated the fuel pumps and checked fuel pressure, observing a zero reading on the fuel quantity indicator. He then selected fuel from the left tank. He also noted low pressure for the left engine.
After climbing to 11,500 feet, about 35 miles from Isla Grande Airport, the left engine ceased operating. Shortly thereafter, the right engine also stopped. The pilot feathered both propellers, declared an emergency, and diverted to Arecibo Airport.
Engine Restarts and Landing
The pilot switched the fuel selector from the left tank to the right tank and was able to restart the right engine. He flew toward the shore, but then the right engine ceased again. About two nautical miles north of Arecibo Airport, at 6,000 feet and descending, the pilot managed to restart the left engine.
He extended the landing gear, entered a right crosswind, extended full flaps on a right downwind, and landed on runway 08 at Arecibo Airport.
Post-Landing Actions
After off-loading passengers, the pilot was debriefed by an FAA inspector, who issued a ferry permit for the aircraft. The pilot then purchased fuel and flew the aircraft to Borinquen Airport, where he topped the tanks with additional fuel.
Probable Cause
Not specified in the source.