NTSB Factual Report

The pilot stated that the airplane's 15-gallon fuel tank was about half-full when he departed on a local flight. At the conclusion of the one-hour flight, while on approach to the airport, the airplane’s engine stopped producing power. The pilot set up for a forced landing to a southerly-oriented runway, and about 200 feet above the ground, the engine started and the aircraft climbed. The engine ran for several seconds and stopped again. The pilot then attempted to circle and land on the northerly-oriented runway. As he approached the runway, the pilot pulled back on the stick but there was no elevator control effectiveness. The airplane impacted the ground, the landing gear collapsed, and the engine firewall sustained substantial damage. Post accident examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the fuel tank was void of fuel, and no fuel drained from the wing fuel sump when tested. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.