Incident Overview
A pilot flying over the Chesapeake Bay experienced a sudden loss of engine power while descending toward the destination airport. The aircraft was subsequently ditched in the bay after attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.
Sequence of Events
The flight had been airborne for about 3.5 hours when the pilot began a descent from 4,000 feet, leveling off at 2,000 feet. At that point, approximately 12 miles north of the airport, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unable to do so. With no other options, the pilot executed a ditching in the Chesapeake Bay.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the aircraft did not reveal any evidence of mechanical malfunction that could explain the loss of power. The extent of damage to the aircraft precluded a definitive determination of the amount of fuel on board at the time of the accident. The pilot had reported carrying enough fuel for 4.5 hours of flight prior to departure.
No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or any injuries have been specified in the available information.