NTSB Factual Report

On June 4, 2004, at 1236 central daylight time, a Cessna T210L, N59027, piloted by a private pilot, impacted terrain during a forced landing following a loss of engine power. The pilot reported minimum fuel while on final approach to runway 19L (7,301 feet by 150 feet, grooved concrete) at Wichita Mid-Continent Airport (ICT), Wichita, Kansas. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight was not operating on a flight plan. The pilot received minor injuries and three passengers were uninjured. The flight originated from Gastons Airport, Lakeview, Arkansas, at 1115, and was en route to ICT.

The pilot stated that while on a 4-mile final, the fuel gauges indicated 5 gallons per fuel tank. About the 3-mile final approach position, he determined that the landing runway would not be obtained due to a lack of engine power. He selected a landing site adjacent to the approach path in a large flow control drainage area. The airplane touched down on a level sandy surface within the drainage area.

Examination of the airplane by the Federal Aviation Administration revealed that there was no usable in either wing fuel tank.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate in-flight planning/decision which resulted in fuel exhaustion and the loss of engine power.