Incident Summary
A pilot who had experienced engine problems during an earlier flight requested maintenance assistance from a local maintenance repair station. Before the maintenance personnel completed and signed off on the repairs, the pilot refueled the airplane and attempted an instrument flight back to the originating airport.
Sequence of Events
While en route, the pilot reported a low fuel situation and decided to divert to a closer airport. During the approach, the airplane lost engine power on both engines. The airplane subsequently collided with trees and then the ground, coming to rest approximately half a mile short of the intended runway.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed no fuel in the fuel system at the accident site. No mechanical problems were discovered with the airplane during the examination. This incident marked the second time the pilot had exhausted the fuel supply in this particular airplane.
Conclusion
The official probable cause is the pilot's failure to preflight plan adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the subsequent loss of engine power.