What happened
The accident occurred while the aircraft was engaged in normal cruise flight operations. During this phase of the flight, the engine ceased functioning due to fuel exhaustion. Following the loss of power, the pilot executed a forced landing in an open field. The impact forces caused the airplane to nosed over.
The investigation
Post-accident inquiries focused on the circumstances surrounding the fuel management and the condition of the aircraft's instruments. The student pilot claimed that he had not been instructed to purchase additional fuel prior to the flight. This assertion was contradicted by the manager of the flight school, who denied giving such an instruction.
Additionally, the pilot reported that the fuel quantity indicators did not show empty when the engine quit. However, the physical evidence and official findings confirmed that the engine failure was directly caused by fuel exhaustion. The discrepancy between the instrument readings and the actual fuel state contributed to the inability to maintain power.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary factor in this accident was the pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply. Despite claims of conflicting instructions from flight school management, the engine ran out of fuel during cruise. The student pilot was not injured, but the aircraft sustained substantial damage due to the nosed-over landing.
Safety message
Pilots must verify fuel quantities independently and ensure accurate readings before flight. Relying solely on instrument indications without cross-checking or confirming fuel purchases can lead to critical errors. Proper pre-flight planning and communication regarding fuel requirements are essential for safety.