NTSB Factual Report

On April 18, 2005, at 1707 central daylight time, a Beech V35B Bonanza, N6645G, sustained substantial damage following a loss of engine power and subsequent forced landing in an open field approximately one-half mile northeast of the Tupelo Regional Airport, Tupelo, Mississippi. The airplane is owned by a private party and was being operated by the pilot as a 14 CFR Part 91 cross-country flight, when the accident occurred. The commercial pilot, the sole occupant of the airplane, sustained serious injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the cross-country flight that originated in Fort Wayne, Indiana at 1430 CST.

In a written statement dated April 26, the pilot reported that while on the return leg of the cross-county flight he noted (via the panel mounted fuel gauges) a lower than expected total fuel quantity. The pilot stated that after reviewing his fuel receipt, he discovered that the airplane had received 15 gallons total at the last fuel stop. He further stated that he had intended for 15 gallons to be added to each wing tank for a total of 30 gallons. The pilot reported that he recalculated the fuel load and determined that he had sufficient fuel to complete the trip.

Approximately two hours later, while in a descent to his planned destination, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot transmitted to the tower that he was unable to make the airport and subsequently landed in a field near Tupelo Airport.

In his written statement, the pilot reported that he "...should have used manual calculations of fuel quantity to backup gauge indications."

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power due to the inadequate in-flight planning and the pilot's failure to refuel the airplane resulting in fuel exhaustion.