Fuel Exhaustion Leads to Forced Landing Near Scottsdale (N4661V)

Incident Overview and Timeline A pilot departed Scottsdale at 1934 MST for a 13 nautical mile flight intended to reposition the aircraft to its home base. Within minutes of departure, the pilot contacted air traffic control (ATC) to report being 6 miles out with minimum fuel and requested no delay. The pilot subsequently requested clearance for runway 22R and was cleared to land. At 1943 MST, the pilot informed the tower that the aircraft would not reach the runway. ## Fuel Status and Technical Details Both engines stopped due to fuel exhaustion, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing in a level dirt area located 1/4 mile from the approach end of runway 22R. The pilot reported that the aircraft contained 120 pounds of fuel upon departure from Scottsdale and that no low fuel warning was received. According to the pilot's operating handbook, the low fuel warning light should illuminate when there is less than 60 gallons of fuel in either tank or when total fuel on board is less than 120 gallons. The manual also stated that the aircraft burns 170 gallons per hour at 70 percent power. ## Outcome and Official Findings The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, was seriously injured. The official investigation identified the probable cause of the initial occurrence as total loss of engine power due to nonmechanical factors during the final approach phase. Findings included improper preflight planning and preparation by the pilot in command, fuel exhaustion, and inadequate fuel supply. Subsequent occurrences included a forced landing during an emergency descent and an in-flight collision with terrain in an open field during dusk.