Accident Sequence
The flight departed Burbank, California, en route to Gila Bend, Arizona, where the pilot intended to refuel. While nearing Gila Bend, the pilot contacted Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) and reported a low fuel situation, stating the plan to land at Gila Bend. The controller determined that no fuel was available at Gila Bend and suggested diverting to another airport. The flight then proceeded toward Buckeye Municipal Airport but was later informed by ARTCC that Buckeye also lacked fuel. Subsequently, the pilot diverted to Phoenix Goodyear Airport and advised the tower of low fuel and intention to land.
During approach, the pilot switched fuel tanks, but the airplane exhibited signs of fuel exhaustion. The engine lost power, and the pilot executed a forced landing in a plowed field approximately one mile from the airport.
Fuel Management
The pilot reported having fueled the airplane to its 90-gallon capacity the day before the accident and had flown for one hour after that. During the accident flight, the pilot used a richer mixture to aid in cooling one cylinder. He told FAA inspectors that this may have led to a miscalculation of fuel consumption.
According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook for the Cessna T210L, the aircraft has a fuel capacity of 90 gallons, with 0.5 gallons unusable on each side. The engine manufacturer states an average fuel burn of about 18 gallons per hour at 75 percent horsepower.
Post-Accident Inspection
FAA inspectors found no fuel onboard the airplane after the accident. All fuel lines and tanks were intact, and there was no evidence of a fuel leak.