What happened
The commercial pilot was operating the aircraft in cruise flight conditions at an altitude of 4,500 feet above ground level (AGL). During this phase of flight, the engine began to sputter, indicating a loss of power. In response to the mechanical anomaly, the pilot immediately switched the fuel selector to the opposite tank and inspected both fuel gauges. The instruments indicated that the fuel levels were near empty.
Recognizing the critical situation, the pilot turned directly toward the nearest airport to attempt an emergency landing. However, before reaching the airfield, the engine sputtered again and then quit completely. With no power available, the pilot was forced to execute a forced landing into a wooded area. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airplane. The pilot sustained minor injuries during the incident.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational history leading up to the engine failure. Examination of the flight data and pilot statements confirmed that the fuel gauges indicated near-empty levels prior to the loss of power. The sequence of events, including the switching of fuel tanks and the attempt to divert to the nearest airport, was consistent with a scenario where the aircraft ran out of usable fuel during cruise flight.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this accident was fuel exhaustion. The pilot's failure to monitor fuel quantity adequately during the cruise phase led to the engine stopping. The subsequent forced landing into trees was a direct result of the inability to maintain altitude or reach a suitable runway. The total destruction of the aircraft and the minor injuries sustained by the pilot were consequences of this uncontrolled descent and impact.