Accident Details
A pilot and three passengers planned a cross-country flight with a return leg. The pilot stated that before departure, the left fuel tank was filled to one inch below the collar, and the right tank was filled to two inches below the collar. Total fuel was estimated to be between 40 and 45 gallons. The planned en route time was 57 minutes with a tailwind of about 10 knots.
During cruise at 7,500 feet, the pilot set the manifold pressure to 21 inches and engine rpm to 2,300, achieving a fuel burn of 12.3 gallons per hour according to the pilot operating handbook.
For the return leg, the pilot again visually checked fuel levels, estimating 12 to 15 gallons in the left tank and 10 gallons in the right tank, for a total of 22 to 25 gallons. The pilot believed fuel burn was normal and decided not to add fuel, noting that estimations are not an accurate science and that no fuel stick was provided to confirm the level.
After departure for the return flight, the pilot switched the fuel tank selector from the left tank to the right tank. Approximately 15 minutes later, the pilot noticed a reduction in engine power and switched back to the left tank, whereupon engine power was restored. The pilot reported that based on calculations, he did not feel the fuel had been exhausted from the right tank. A few minutes later, the engine lost power again, and the pilot performed a forced landing to a construction site.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-crash examination found substantial damage to the airplane's fuselage and left wing. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported that the fuel tanks were empty and had not been breached during the accident.