Event Description
During final approach, the pilot observed that the aircraft was flying 'unusual' and elected to perform a go-around. As he advanced the throttle for the go-around, the aircraft lost engine power, necessitating a forced landing. The landing was executed on a residential street near the airport. The pilot later stated that he had inadvertently placed the fuel selector in the crossfeed position, causing both engines to draw fuel from the right wing tank, which subsequently exhausted its supply. No mechanical issues had been reported prior to the accident.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the loss of engine power was nonmechanical in origin. The primary finding was fuel starvation resulting from the pilot's improper positioning of the fuel tank selector. Additionally, the pilot's in-flight planning and decision-making were assessed as poor, and the failure to follow the checklist was noted as a factor.
Probable Cause
The probable causes, as determined by the investigation, are as follows:
- Occurrence #1: loss of engine power (total) - nonmechanical, Phase of operation: go-around (VFR)
- Findings:
1. Fluid, fuel - starvation 2. (c) fuel tank selector position - improper - pilot in command 3. (c) in-flight planning/decision - poor - pilot in command 4. (f) checklist - not followed - pilot in command
- Occurrence #2: forced landing, Phase of operation: descent - emergency
- Occurrence #3: hard landing, Phase of operation: landing - flare/touchdown