NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the float-equipped airplane stated that he was on final approach for landing on a lake where he intended to refuel. About 400 feet above ground level, the airplane's engine lost power and quit. The pilot was unable to restart it and impacted a corn field approximately one-half mile from the lake. The pilot reported to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector that he had flown for about 4 1/2 hours, and that the right fuel tank gauge indicated approximately one-quarter remaining just prior to the accident. The FAA inspector that responded to the accident scene reported that the left wing's fuel tank was void of fuel, and approximately 1 gallon of fuel was extracted from the right wing fuel tank. The engine separated from the airframe during the impact and the firewall was substantially damaged. According to photos provided by the New York State Police, the right fuel tank indicator was between the "E" and the 1/4 tank mark and the left tank indicated below "E."

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate preflight planning and preparation, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.