Accident
During a night cross-country flight, the airplane impacted trees and terrain after experiencing a total loss of engine power. The pilot had notified air traffic control of a belief that the fuel tanks were empty and intended to make a precautionary landing at a nearby airport. Approximately 12 miles north of the diversion airport, the engine began to lose power. All attempts to restore power failed. Following the complete engine power loss, the pilot maneuvered for an emergency landing but was unable to reach the airfield.
Investigation
Investigators obtained information indicating that the pilot had flown non-stop from Prescott, Arizona, to Odessa, Texas, in 5.3 hours, using 45.3 gallons of fuel. This yielded an approximate fuel burn rate of 8.56 gallons per hour. The accident occurred on the return leg of the flight, also planned as a non-stop from Odessa to Prescott. According to flight records and the Hobbs hour meter, the accident flight lasted 5.7 hours. At the fuel burn rate of 8.56 gph, the pilot operated the airplane beyond its usable fuel level of 48 gallons. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures.