PA-28 Cherokee/Archer/Dakota/Pillan/Warrior
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 1.7; Flight Crew Total 162; Flight Crew Type 13
Situational Awareness; Time Pressure
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Aircraft; Weather; Human Factors; Airspace Structure
My intention was to arrive at my destination prior to thunderstorms forecast in the area. The majority of the flight was conducted with headwinds of 10-20 KTS; leading to higher than expected fuel burn and longer than planned time en route. A potential fuel stop at an airport along the route was bypassed in the mistaken belief that there was enough fuel on board to make my destination. While descending after clearing controlled airspace the engine lost power; I called a Mayday and attempted to restart the engine. Selection of alternate fuel tanks allowed me to regain the engine long enough to climb and stretch the glide to my destination rather than landing off-airport. Engine power was lost for good just short of the threshold; and a successful engine-out landing was completed with no injury or damage to the aircraft.This incident was avoidable. A less optimistic assessment of the flight duration and fuel burn vs. available fuel would have indicated that it was impossible to complete with adequate fuel reserves. A 20-minute fuel stop would have prevented this.
While attempting to stretch his fuel to get to his destination ahead of forecast weather the pilot of a PA28-B ran out of fuel but was able to extend his glide just enough to reach the touchdown zone of his destination airport.