Accident Overview
A student pilot departed Albuquerque, New Mexico, for a cross-country flight under visual meteorological conditions. The aircraft was operated with less than full fuel tanks and a worn-out engine-driven fuel pump, which allowed fuel to be pumped overboard. No flight plan was filed for the trip.
Engine Failure and Autorotation
During the flight, the engine failed. The pilot attempted an autorotation, but the maneuver was unsuccessful. The investigation revealed that the engine was not running at the time of impact. The accident resulted in fatal injuries.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination determined that the fuel gauge was inaccurate. No fuel was found in the lines supplying fuel to the engine. The worn-out engine-driven fuel pump was identified as having allowed fuel to be pumped overboard, contributing to fuel exhaustion.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the student pilot's decision to depart with less than full fuel tanks and a worn-out engine-driven fuel pump, which allowed fuel to be pumped overboard, leading to fuel exhaustion and engine failure.