During a repositioning flight, the Piper PA 31-350 encountered winds aloft that were higher than forecasted. The pilot reported that 25 minutes into the flight the left engine stopped producing power due to fuel exhaustion.
He secured the engine and continued towards the closest airport.
Approximately 8 to 9 minutes later, the right engine stopped producing power due to fuel exhaustion.
During a forced landing to a field near Glenham, S.D., the right wing was substantially damaged.
The NTSB determined the probable cause as the pilot’s improper fuel management, which resulted in losses of power on both engines due to fuel exhaustion.
NTSB Identification: CEN15CA006
This October 2014 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
This pilot, and I use the term loosely, took off with a dangerously inadequate fuel supply. If I could I’d slap him upside his head. How can he be allowed to operate several thousand pounds of machinery over my head. Now that’s a thought.
I guess that 3rd class medical exam he got did not include checking for the presence of a brain.
A flight that extended to more then 25 minutes due to high winds causes exceeds the aircraft fuel supply? What kind of idiot would actually takeoff with such a seriously low fuel supply and how did they ever get the ratings and experience to be able to fly a twin engine aircraft. This person should be grounded for life and I mean everything, not even a toy balsa wood glider is safe enough for someone with such poor judgement.
Worst case of “Terminal Stupidity” I have ever heard of, just searching for the place of their demise…
Pilot of PA 31-350, please return your pilot certificates to the FAA.