What happened
The aircraft was operating in cruise flight when the engine experienced a sudden loss of power. The pilot initiated procedures for a forced landing, intending to reach a nearby airport. However, due to the low altitude at which the failure occurred, the pilot was unable to make the airport and instead landed on an access road serving an interstate highway.
During the rollout phase of the emergency landing, the left wing struck a speed limit sign located near the roadway. The aircraft sustained damage from this impact. It was noted that the airplane had not been flown for approximately three months prior to this incident.
The investigation
Examination of the engine and fuel system revealed no mechanical failure of the powerplant itself. The loss of power was attributed to fuel starvation within the engine. Further inspection identified a blockage in the fuel vent system as the root cause of the fuel flow interruption.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the blockage of the fuel vent system, which led to fuel starvation and subsequent engine power loss. The long period of inactivity for the aircraft likely contributed to the formation of this blockage. The pilot's decision to attempt a landing on a highway access road was necessitated by the low altitude at the time of the failure.
Safety message
Regular preflight inspections are critical, especially after extended periods of inactivity. Pilots should ensure that fuel vent systems are clear and unobstructed to prevent fuel starvation during flight.