What happened
During a ferry flight, the crew observed conflicting fuel weight readings between the left and right wing tanks. Initial readings suggested approximately 3,900 lbs in the left tank and 4-050 lbs in the right. Shortly after departure, the cockpit gauges indicated a reversed imbalance, showing 4,100 lbs on the left and 3,600 lbs on the right. In an attempt to correct this perceived discrepancy, the pilot engaged the crossfeed system for roughly 30 minutes.
As the flight neared its destination, the left engine lost power because the left tank had run dry, despite the gauge indicating 500 lbs of fuel remained. The pilot attempted to restore power by crossfeeding fuel from the right tank to both engines. While being vectored by ATC for an emergency ILS approach to runway 3, the pilot became distracted while attempting to re-intercept the localizer. While flying in IMC at approximately 500 feet above ground level, both engines lost power. The crew performed a forced landing at night, during which the Convair 340 struck a raised berm, causing damage to the airframe.
Findings
Post-accident investigations revealed that the left tank contained no fuel, while the right tank held 125 gallons. No mechanical failures were identified in the engines or fuel system components prior to the impact. However, manufacturer data suggested that fuel unporting from the tank outlets could occur during specific maneuvers when fuel levels were low. This phenomenon, which can lead to engine starvation, was not documented in the aircraft's flight manual.