What happened
The accident occurred while the aircraft was returning to the airfield. During the turn to the final approach for landing, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of power. To avoid obstacles in the vicinity, the pilot elected to divert to an unprepared field nearby.
During the subsequent landing roll on this improvised site, the aircraft struck a fence post and the associated fencing. Following the event, the pilot stated that the accident could have been avoided had sufficient fuel remained on board the aircraft at the time of the incident.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical status of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the power loss. Examination revealed no evidence of pre-impact mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation. The primary factor identified was the depletion of the fuel supply.
Findings
Contributing factors to the accident included the pilot's decision to continue the flight without ensuring adequate fuel reserves. The lack of sufficient fuel led to engine power loss during a critical phase of flight, necessitating an emergency landing on unprepared terrain which resulted in further damage from ground obstacles.