Incident Overview
During flight, as the airplane reached an altitude of 22,000 feet, the pilot reported that both engines ceased operation within seconds of each other. While attempting an emergency landing, the aircraft struck trees. No fatalities or injuries were reported in the source.
Investigation Findings
On-scene examination found no mechanical anomalies in the engines. The fuel system was empty except for residual fuel traces in the left and right engine's fuel injector servos and flow dividers.
Fuel System Examination
Both wing fuel tank cap o-rings were hardened and exhibited flat spots. The opening tabs on the caps required forces of 8 and 3 pounds, respectively, to open. The company holding the type certificate specifies that an opening force of 16 pounds is required. The company's annual inspection checklist mandates checking these tabs, but no record of such checks was found in the airframe logbook.
Preflight and Maintenance Records
The pilot operating handbook requires that fuel cap tab tension be verified during the preflight inspection. No documentation indicated that this step was performed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined as: "Inadequate preflight by the pilot resulting in fuel exhaustion. Inadequate maintenance and inspection was a factor contributing to the accident."