Introduction
A pilot reported planning a round trip cross-country flight. Prior to departure, he determined the fuel quantity using the airplane's fuel totalizer gauge, which indicated 89 gallons. The flight to the destination was uneventful, and upon landing, 20 gallons of fuel were purchased. The pilot then departed for the return flight.
Fuel Indications and Power Loss
During the return leg, the pilot noted that on takeoff the fuel tank gauges indicated between 1/3 and 1/4 full. While cruising, he contacted an air traffic control facility and reported a loss of power in one engine. Approximately 5 minutes later, he broadcast that both engines had lost power.
Emergency Landing
Unable to reach the nearest airport, the pilot executed a landing on soft, uneven terrain. During the rollout, the airplane nosed over, resulting in substantial damage.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident calculation estimated that the round trip flight consumed about 106 gallons of fuel. An FAA inspector found approximately 2 gallons of fuel in one tank, while the other tank was dry. No fuel was observed in the main fuel lines to the engines. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident is a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion as a result of the pilot's inadequate fuel planning.