What happened
On 30 April 2022, a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, registered F-GXMP, was conducting parachute drop operations at Pamiers Les Pujols aerodrome. After completing several rotations, the pilot decided to perform one final jump. During the engine start-up for this last rotation, the amber low fuel level indicator lights for the wing tanks illuminated. Despite this, the pilot proceeded with the climb to 4,0-m.
As the aircraft reached 3,800 m, the red low fuel level indicator for the feeder tank illuminated. The pilot instructed the 18 parachutists to jump immediately. Following the drop, the pilot began a descent, attempting to increase power to return to the aerodrome. However, the engine shut down due to fuel exhaustion.
During the subsequent forced approach, the pilot did not feather the propeller to avoid overshooting the runway. While on final approach, the pilot retracted the flaps to reduce drag and maintain the glide path. This caused the aircraft to lose lift and sink, leading to a touchdown in a grass field before the runway threshold. The aircraft bounced, crossed a grove, and came to a stop in a ditch, causing substantial damage to the aeroplane.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the fuel management procedures and the sequence of events leading to the engine failure. Investigators examined the pilot's fuel calculations, noting that the pilot had estimated 114 liters of total fuel available, while the required minimum for such a flight—based on the operator's specific checklist—was significantly higher (approximately 227 liters). The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's fuel system, including the function of the amber and red warning lights, and the pilot's decision-making regarding engine configuration during the forced landing.