Flight Planning and Departure
The pilot obtained a weather briefing that forecast winds aloft of 20-30 knots. The pilot calculated the flight time to the final destination to be about 2 hours and estimated that, at the intended power setting, the airplane's fuel tanks contained approximately 3 hours of fuel.
Stopover and Fuel Check
The initial leg of the flight lasted about 20 minutes, and the pilot landed at the intended airport to pick up two passengers. After a brief stopover, the pilot checked the fuel quantity and found it to be below the fuel indicator tabs. The pilot then estimated the amount using an unapproved straw indicator before departing for the final destination.
En Route and Descent
During the flight, the pilot reported that headwind conditions were stronger than anticipated and decided to proceed to the closest airport. Nearing the airport, the pilot switched between the airplane's two fuel tanks, exhausting the fuel in both.
Forced Landing and Impact
About 2 hours and 30 minutes after the initial departure, the pilot performed a forced landing 3 miles short of the alternate airport. After touchdown, during the landing rollout, the airplane's right main gear impacted a large rock, causing the airplane to pivot to the right and the nose gear to collapse.
Post-Crash Examination
The pilot stated that a post-crash examination revealed both fuel tanks were completely empty. The cockpit fuel gauges indicated 1/8 fuel remaining in each tank. Further examination of the fuel gauges showed that the sending unit for the left tank read 1/4 of fuel remaining while in the empty position. Federal Aviation Regulations in 14 CFR Part 23 require each fuel quantity indicator to be calibrated to read "zero" when the quantity of fuel remaining in the tank is equal to the unusable fuel supply.