Incident Details
During the final approach to runway 23 at Bristol-Tri-Cities Airport, both engines lost power simultaneously. The pilot initiated an emergency landing procedure, which resulted in the aircraft touching down on its belly in a field located approximately 2,600 feet before the runway threshold. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was uninjured. The aircraft, however, sustained extensive damage and was deemed beyond repair.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined that the dual engine failure was caused by fuel exhaustion. The subsequent wheels-up landing was a direct consequence of the power loss during the approach. Contributing factors identified in the report include mismanagement of fuel, inattention to fuel supply, and the necessity of a forced landing off airport terrain.