Accident Summary
During the final approach to Indianapolis Airport, a twin-engine airplane experienced a dual engine failure caused by fuel exhaustion. The pilot subsequently lost control of the aircraft, which struck trees and crashed. The accident resulted in the death of one passenger and injuries to both other occupants. The aircraft was destroyed.
Sequence of Events
The flight was on final approach to Indianapolis Airport when both engines ceased operating due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot's control of the airplane was lost, leading to a collision with trees and a subsequent crash. The impact caused fatal injuries to one passenger and non-fatal injuries to the other two individuals on board. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and ensuing forces.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
Official findings identified the probable cause as engine failure on final approach and subsequent collision with trees due to inadequate preflight preparation. The following contributing factors were reported:
- Improper in-flight decisions
- Lack of familiarity with the aircraft
- Mismanagement of fuel
- Fuel exhaustion
- Erratic fuel quantity gauge
- Complete failure of both engines
- Forced landing off airport on land
- Use of a power schedule that exceeded maximum structural cruising speed, increasing fuel consumption by 100 pounds per hour
These factors collectively led to the loss of engine power and the pilot's inability to maintain controlled flight, resulting in the crash.