Incident Overview
The pilot of a general aviation aircraft departed Springdale, Arkansas, with all fuel tanks reportedly full. During the flight, the pilot alternated fuel tank usage, flying for one hour on the left tank and thirty minutes on the auxiliary tank. The aircraft performed normally during the en route phase and the letdown to the Marshall Airport traffic pattern.
Power Loss and Landing
According to the pilot, after switching back to the left main tank, a loss of engine power occurred. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The pilot raised the flaps to increase gliding distance, but the aircraft was unable to reach the runway. It landed short on a cultivated plot inside the airport, between the perimeter fence and the runway threshold.
Post-Accident Examination
An investigation conducted after the accident revealed that the right main fuel tank remained full, while the left main tank was empty. The aircraft's fuel system was tested and found to operate normally. The fuel selector was found in a position corresponding to the left main tank.
Findings
No other anomalies were noted in the airframe or engine during the inspection. The pilot had reported no mechanical issues prior to the power loss. The aircraft sustained damage during the off-runway landing.