Navigation Equipment Malfunction Leads to Fuel Exhaustion and Forced Landing (N5514T)

Incident Overview

While conducting a cross-country flight, the aircraft's navigation equipment was not functioning properly, resulting in the pilot becoming lost and disoriented. The pilot requested a direction-finding (DF) steer but encountered difficulty receiving transmissions on his receiver. He subsequently received assistance and vectors toward Huntingburg Airport.

Power Loss and Forced Landing

Before reaching the airport, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot executed a forced landing in a wooded area approximately two miles from Huntingburg Airport. During the landing, the aircraft sustained damage.

Fuel Remaining

After the accident, only about one quart of fuel was found remaining in the fuel tanks.

Summary of Events

• The navigation equipment was not working properly during a cross-country flight.
• The pilot became lost and requested a DF steer but had difficulty receiving transmissions.
• Assistance was provided, and vectors were given toward Huntingburg Airport.
• The engine lost power from fuel exhaustion before reaching the airport.
• A forced landing was made in a wooded area about two miles from the airport, damaging the aircraft.
• Post-accident inspection revealed approximately one quart of fuel left in the tanks.