Incident Overview
A student pilot was conducting a cross-country flight. After departing from an en route airport with approximately 12 gallons of fuel on board, the pilot was returning to his home base. Due to high winds at the destination airport, the student diverted to an alternate airport.
Fuel Exhaustion and Emergency Landing
While en route to the alternate airport, the aircraft ran out of fuel. The student pilot attempted to land in a field but, before reaching it, the aircraft flew into the tops of trees.
Wind Conditions
Approximately 9 miles south, at 1251 CST, the wind was reported from 210 degrees at 20 knots, gusting to 34 knots.
Investigation Notes
The investigation determined that the aircraft had taken off with about 12 gallons of fuel. The diversion due to high winds and subsequent fuel exhaustion led to the attempted off-airport landing, which resulted in the aircraft striking trees.