No fatalities

1997-11-07: Douglas DC-3 (N59316) — McNeely Charter Service — Memphis, United States of America

Memphis, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 7, 1997, a Douglas DC-3 (registration N59316) operated by McNeely Charter Service was involved in an aviation accident near Memphis, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's improper management of fuel resulting in a total loss of engine power on both engines during an instrument approach due to fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781205699Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported both engines failed during an instrument approach due to fuel exhaustion. After a brief restart by switching tanks, both engines quit again, resulting in a forced landing on a sandbar. The fuel tanks were found empty and undamaged.

Incident Overview

The pilot-in-command (PIC) reported that during an instrument approach, the left engine fuel pressure dropped to zero and the engine ceased operating. The pilot then moved the fuel selector to the right rear fuel tank, which allowed the left engine to restart. The approach continued for approximately two miles when the right engine failed, followed shortly by the left engine. The PIC executed a forced landing onto a sandbar.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the airplane following the landing revealed that the fuel tanks were not ruptured. However, all fuel tanks were found to be empty.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause for the incident was the pilot-in-command's improper management of fuel, which resulted in a total loss of engine power on both engines during an instrument approach due to fuel exhaustion.