Engine failure and fuel exhaustion during approach to runway 16

No fatalities • Chicago-Executive (Palwaukee), United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A pilot experienced total power loss in both engines during an instrument approach, leading to an emergency landing on a road.

What happened

During a flight involving an unspecified aircraft, the pilot conducted pre-flight calculations that indicated sufficient fuel for the intended trip. While navigating through thunderstorm activity enroute, the flight proceeded toward the destination. Upon reaching the airport, the pilot initiated an instrument landing system approach for runway 16.

During the short final phase of the approach, the right engine suffered a complete loss of power. In an attempt to maintain flight, the pilot transitioned the fuel flow from the right tank to the left tank. Shortly thereafter, the left engine also lost all power. The pilot subsequently performed an emergency landing on a roadway. During the descent and impact, the aircraft struck a tree, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and wings.

Findings

Post-accident investigations determined that the aircraft had exhausted its entire fuel supply during the flight. Although the pilot's initial calculations suggested 230 gallons were available, a secondary calculation performed after the event revealed that only 170 gallons were actually onboard. While the right fuel tank was breached during the accident, no fuel odor was reported. An examination of the left tank showed only a small amount of unusable fuel remaining. No mechanical issues were reported by the pilot prior to the engine failures.

Probable cause

The engines failed due to the total depletion of the aircraft's fuel supply following an error in pre-flight fuel calculations.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2013-06-25 Beechcraft 200 Super King Air accident near Chicago-Executive (Palwaukee), United States of America?

A pilot experienced total power loss in both engines during an instrument approach, leading to an emergency landing on a road.

Were there any fatalities in the 2013-06-25 Beechcraft 200 Super King Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2013-06-25 involved a Beechcraft 200 Super King Air, registration N92JR, operated by Tennair, at Chicago-Executive (Palwaukee), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engines failed due to the total depletion of the aircraft's fuel supply following an error in pre-flight fuel calculations.

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