Cessna Stationair/Turbo Stationair 6
Flight Crew Commercial; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 20; Flight Crew Total 305; Flight Crew Type 12
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Aircraft Equipment Problem Dissipated; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Flight Cancelled / Delayed; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
On descent from a jump at 13;000 MSL; I noticed my fuel flow had dropped to zero. Finding that odd I added throttle to see if it would increase. Nothing happened and manifold pressure remained roughly the same. After determining that the engine may have failed; I ran the memory items - fuel fullest tank; as both isn't an option mixture; rich; prop control full forward circuit breakers in; fuel pump on and mags on both. The fuel flow remained at zero. Given the large amount of time during descent; I cycled mixture; fuel pump; and fuel selector hoping something would revive the engine. It surged to life briefly a few times but never ran. I also noted the fuel gauges were not reading empty. The dead stick landing was successful on Runway XX at ZZZ; and was able to hold enough momentum to clear the runway.After securing the airplane I took a few moments to collect myself. I then sticked both tanks and noticed there was 6-7 gallons in each tank. Airport Operations and the owner met me on the taxiway. The owner; reportedly a pilot and A&P; then entered the aircraft and attempted to start it. It ran for a few seconds before again; dying. He then stated it must be vapor locked given its behavior along with the incredibly hot day we were experiencing. Aircraft was towed back to the Ramp and allowed to cool. [It] will be inspected before [the] next flight. In the future I'll be more aware of proper leaning; CHT (Cylinder Head Temperature); EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) at altitude on high density altitude/temperature days; especially in these tired old jump planes.
Pilot reported loss of engine power resulting in an emergency landing.