Incident Overview
According to the investigation report, the pilot of the accident airplane became lost while on a cross-country flight. He requested assistance from air traffic control (ATC) and was given directions to an airport, where he landed and refueled. After resuming his flight, the pilot became lost once again. Approximately one hour after departure, he noticed that the fuel gauges on the airplane indicated empty.
Precautionary Landing and Collision
In response to the fuel gauge indication, the pilot elected to perform an off-airport precautionary landing. After touching down, he aborted the landing and attempted to climb away from the field. During this climb, the airplane collided with trees.
Witness and Post-Accident Examination
A witness who assisted the pilot and passenger after the accident reported smelling fuel at the site. A post-accident examination of the wreckage verified the presence of fuel in both wing tanks. No mechanical defects were discovered in the airplane.