Incident Overview
On August 1, 2008, about 1546 eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-12 (registration N3424M) operating under 14 CFR Part 91 as a banner-tow flight experienced a total loss of engine power and was ditched in the Atlantic Ocean near Grand Strand Airport (CRE), North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The flight, operated by Barnstormer Flite Signs, Inc., originated from CRE at approximately 1300. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that earlier in the day, the fuel tanks were filled and he flew for 45 minutes within the traffic pattern. After landing, he secured the airplane. The operator reportedly advised the pilot twice to fuel the airplane before the next departure, but it was not fueled. The pilot elected to depart on a banner-tow flight. During the flight, while monitoring fuel levels, he observed the left and right fuel quantity indicators reading "1/4" and "1/3," respectively. Approximately 1 to 2 minutes later, at about 1545, the engine sputtered once and then quit. The pilot notified CRE air traffic control tower of his intent to land on the runway and released the banner. Realizing he could not reach the airport, he decided to ditch the airplane.
Damage and Injuries
The airplane sustained substantial damage. The certificated commercial pilot sustained minor injuries.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed no fuel or water in the airplane's fuel tanks. The gascolator contained an unquantified amount of fuel only, and the carburetor contained only water.