Accident Overview
An Aeronca Chief aircraft experienced a forced landing and subsequent collision with a telephone pole. The incident occurred during the landing roll on a dirt road following an engine failure in flight.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported a delay of approximately 45 minutes while awaiting takeoff clearance from ground control, during which the engine was running. After takeoff and while en route, the engine ceased operation. The pilot executed a forced landing to a road. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with a telephone pole.
Pilot Statements
The pilot informed local police that he had run out of fuel. In his pilot accident report, the pilot indicated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions. The cause of the engine stoppage was fuel exhaustion.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft suffered fuel exhaustion, leading to the engine failure. No mechanical issues were reported. The forced landing and subsequent collision with the telephone pole were the direct result of the fuel exhaustion.