Summary
A pilot conducting a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight departed with only one usable fuel tank, having calculated sufficient fuel to reach the destination with reserve fuel. Upon arrival, the pilot initiated an approach to land but decided to perform a go-around. During the turn to crosswind, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a field, but during the landing roll, the aircraft impacted a ditch and nosed over.
Narrative
According to the accident investigation, the pilot planned a VFR cross-country flight. Preflight fuel planning involved using only one usable fuel tank; the pilot determined that the fuel onboard was adequate to reach the destination with reserve fuel. The flight proceeded normally until the approach to the destination airport. The pilot commenced an approach for landing but subsequently opted to go around. While turning to the crosswind leg, the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot immediately initiated a forced landing procedure, selecting a field as the landing site. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a ditch, causing the aircraft to nose over.
Post-Accident Examination
After the accident, an examination of the aircraft revealed that there was no usable fuel remaining in the fuel tanks. The absence of fuel suggests that the engine power loss was due to fuel exhaustion. No other mechanical anomalies were reported.
Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft operated with only one usable fuel tank during the flight. The pilot's fuel calculation indicated sufficient fuel for the trip with reserves, but post-accident inspection found the tanks empty. The forced landing was necessitated by the sudden loss of engine power, and the subsequent impact with a ditch resulted in the aircraft nosing over.