What happened
During a repositioning flight intended for maintenance, a pilot conducted a preflight inspection of the aircraft. Upon activating electrical power, the pilot observed that the fuel gauge indicated only 80 gallons, despite the aircraft having a maximum capacity of 156 gallons. The pilot determined that 113 gallons were required to meet legal requirements for the intended destination. Although the pilot requested additional fuel from the fixed base operator (FBO), a ramp technician stated that the tanks were already full.
After checking the filler neck and seeing fuel present, the pilot assumed the tanks were at capacity and did not depress the anti-siphon valve to verify the actual depth of the fuel. During engine start, the pilot observed the fuel gauge flickering but attributed this to a malfunction rather than a low fuel state. The aircraft departed for the maintenance base, but approximately two hours into the flight, both engines lost power. The pilot attempted to reach the nearest airport but was forced to perform an off-field landing in a cotton field. Following the impact, the aircraft rolled into trees, causing the left wing to separate from the fuselage and resulting in substantial damage to both wings.
Findings
Investigations revealed that the fueler at the FBO had previously checked the aircraft and, seeing fuel at the top of the anti-siphon valve, believed the tanks were full. The pilot failed to properly verify the actual fuel quantity by depressing the anti-siphon valve during preflight. While the fuel quantity transmitter was tested and found to be functioning correctly, recovery personnel noted that the tanks were empty upon retrieval of the wreckage. The loss of engine power was caused by the exhaustion of available fuel.