Accident Overview
A pilot conducted a cross-country flight from Ozark, Alabama, to Columbia, South Carolina, and return. During the return leg, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion, resulting in a forced landing that damaged the aircraft and nearby property.
Flight Details
The pilot used 22 gallons of fuel to reach Columbia. Before departing on the return flight, the aircraft was refueled to its full capacity of 24.5 usable gallons. On the return trip, the pilot encountered headwinds, did not lean the fuel mixture, and was vectored around thunderstorms by air traffic control. These conditions increased fuel consumption beyond the planned amount.
Forced Landing and Damage
Before reaching the destination airport, the engine lost power because of fuel exhaustion. The aircraft then executed a forced landing. During the landing, the aircraft struck a power line and damaged an oat crop. The pilot reported these impacts.