What happened
During a flight to a destination airport, the pilot diverted twice due to weather conditions involving convective activity in the area. While performing a visual approach to a second alternate airport, the pilot encountered a very strong gust approximately 25 to 50 feet above ground level. This gust pushed the aircraft well to the left of the runway. The pilot attempted a go-around by applying full engine power; however, the engines did not appear to develop full power as expected.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the left main fuel tank was broken open and was empty, while the right main fuel tank contained 27 gallons of fuel. Both fuel selectors were set to their respective auxiliary tanks, which held only 1.2 gallons in the left auxiliary tank and 0.5 gallons in the right auxiliary tank. The aircraft lacked weather detection equipment. Regarding the engines, the propeller on the left engine separated from the engine and showed evidence of torsional bending and twisting. In contrast, the right propeller remained attached to the right engine without any signs of torsional damage.
Findings
- The pilot did not obtain a weather briefing or file a flight plan prior to departure, which was a violation of both company and Federal Aviation Regulations.
- The aircraft was not equipped with equipment for detecting weather.