August 19, 2007, Old Bridge, N.J., Cessna T210N

At about 1900 Eastern time the airplane was substantially damaged during a forced landing following a total loss of engine power. The airline transport pilot and passenger were not injured. Visual conditions prevailed. After a flight from North Carolina to New Jersey, the airplane was fueled with 13.5 gallons added to each wingtip fuel tank. No additional fuel was added to the main fuel tanks. The airplane then departed for another New Jersey airport. During the subsequent landing approach engine experienced a total loss of power, and the pilot performed a forced landing on a racetrack, incurring substantial damage. Inspection revealed both main fuel tanks remained intact and did not contain any fuel. The airplanes tip tank switches were found in the "Off" position.

Key Takeaways:

• An airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during a landing approach, resulting in a forced landing on a racetrack and substantial damage, though the pilot and passenger were uninjured.
• Investigation revealed that the main fuel tanks were empty, despite tip tanks having been refueled, because the tip tank switches were found in the "Off" position.

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