Accident Overview
Aircraft involved in a cross-country flight experienced fuel exhaustion, resulting in a forced landing. The pilot reported encountering adverse weather conditions and attempted to divert to an alternate airport. During this attempt, the aircraft ran out of fuel, leading to the forced landing and subsequent crash.
Pilot and Weather Conditions
The pilot was not instrument rated. At the time of the accident, weather conditions at London were reported as 600 feet overcast with visibility of 2 miles in fog.
Fuel Status
Post-accident examination revealed that 1 quart of fuel drained from the left fuel tank, which had been in use at the time of the accident. The pilot reported that the right tank had been run dry en route.
Conclusion
The accident occurred as a result of fuel exhaustion during a cross-country flight in weather conditions requiring instrument capabilities beyond the pilot's qualifications. The forced landing was necessitated by the depleted fuel state.