Accident Narrative
A flight from Newark, New Jersey, to Richmond, Virginia, experienced a departure delay, causing the aircraft to arrive in Richmond after refueling facilities had closed. The pilot determined that sufficient fuel remained aboard to complete the next flight to Washington National Airport and departed. Approximately 21 miles from the destination, the pilot declared a low-fuel state and requested vectors to the nearest airport. Air traffic control provided vectors toward Davison Army Airfield.
During the approach, both engines lost power due to lack of fuel. The aircraft crashed in a wooded area approximately 500 yards short of runway 32. The aircraft was destroyed, and both occupants sustained serious injuries.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the following contributing factors: lack of fuel, improper fuel consumption calculations by the pilot, inadequate preflight inspection, low fuel level, delayed decision-making, fuel exhaustion, and insufficient fuel supply. The forced landing occurred during dark night conditions, and the aircraft collided with trees.