What happened
During an air taxi cargo operation, an aircraft was performing an ILS approach to runway 23 when the left engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot reported that the left engine fuel pressure warning light activated at approximately 550 feet altitude. In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot engaged the crossfeed valve. Shortly after this action, the right engine also lost power following the activation of its fuel pressure warning light.
The aircraft subsequently struck the terrain during the final stages of the approach. The sole occupant of the aircraft sustained serious injuries in the accident.
Findings
An investigation into the mechanical and operational aspects of the flight identified issues with the aircraft's fuel monitoring system. The aircraft utilized a single fuel gauge for the entire tank system, requiring the pilot to manually activate a selector switch to check quantities in specific tanks.
It was determined that by opening the crossfeed valve without first closing the fuel shut-off valve, the pilot inadvertently allowed fuel to be diverted away from the functioning right engine. This sequence of events led to fuel starvation across both engines. Additionally, investigators noted that the pilot's understanding of emergency procedures and deficiencies in operator training contributed to the loss of power and the subsequent crash.