What happened
The aircraft was operating in cruise flight at an altitude of 11,500 feet mean sea level when the pilot experienced a sudden loss of fuel pressure and engine power. In response to the emergency, the pilot attempted to restore engine function by testing various combinations of fuel tank selections and activating the boost pump. These corrective actions proved unsuccessful, and the engine did not restart.
With no further options for in-flight recovery, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure targeting a nearby remote airstrip. During the final approach phase, the pilot misjudged the descent path and airspeed. The aircraft stalled approximately 100 yards short of the runway threshold before making contact with the ground.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed no evidence of mechanical failure that would explain the in-flight power loss. There were no signs of fuel pump failure, nor was there any indication of blockage within the fuel lines or distributor block. A subsequent test run of the engine performed after recovery showed satisfactory operation, confirming that the engine itself was mechanically sound at the time of inspection.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the accident was the stall during the attempted forced landing. The pilot's misjudgment of the approach resulted in a loss of airspeed before reaching the intended landing area. While the initial loss of power prompted emergency procedures, the investigation could not identify a specific mechanical cause for the fuel pressure drop or engine shutdown.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware that unexplained power loss can occur even when engines are mechanically sound. Proper energy management and conservative approach planning are critical during forced landing attempts to ensure sufficient altitude and airspeed remain available for recovery.