Flight Details
The aircraft was operating a non-scheduled flight from Moosonee to Nemiscan Settlement. The pilot reported using the rear fuel tanks for takeoff and cruise, which contained approximately 150 gallons of fuel. The front tanks each held about 10-15 gallons. Power settings were 28 inches of manifold pressure and 2050 rpm with automatic lean mixture.
Engine Failures
Approximately 50 minutes after takeoff, the left engine's fuel pressure dropped to zero, and the engine failed. The booster pumps were switched on, and the tank selections were changed, but these actions had no effect. Shortly after, the right engine's fuel pressure also dropped to zero, and that engine failed. Attempts to restart the engines were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
When the aircraft descended to an altitude of 200 feet above ground, the pilot realized he could not reach the Rupert River. A forced landing was made into trees approximately 1000 feet from the river with the landing gear extended. Both pilots sustained severe injuries.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the front fuel tanks were empty, while no fuel had apparently been used from either of the rear tanks. The official probable cause was engine failure due to fuel exhaustion.