Incident Overview
An on-demand cargo flight departed for its intended destination but was delayed en route due to repetitive closures at the destination airport. The closures were caused by snow-contaminated runways. Concerned about remaining fuel reserves, the pilot decided to divert to an alternate airport.
Loss of Engine Power
During an instrument approach at the alternate airport, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. Subsequently, the aircraft impacted the ground approximately 200 yards short of the landing runway.
Postaccident Inspection
A postaccident inspection of the airplane revealed no usable fuel on board.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be the pilot’s improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power during an instrument landing due to fuel exhaustion.