Incident Overview
A student pilot conducting the final long solo cross-country flight required for a private pilot certificate experienced an engine power loss during the return leg. The aircraft was cruising at approximately 2,500 feet when the engine failed about 15 miles south of the intended airport. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful, leading to a forced landing in a marshy area. During the landing, the airplane nosed over.
Fuel Management
The pilot had completed preflight planning, and the flight instructor had approved the route. The instructor specifically advised the student to "top off the tanks." However, the pilot reported that due to insufficient funds, only 5 gallons of fuel were added instead of filling the tanks. The pilot considered this amount adequate for the planned return flight.
During the return journey, the pilot made several additional landings that were not included in the original flight plan. These unscheduled stops consumed more fuel than anticipated. Post-accident examination of the aircraft's fuel tanks revealed a total of approximately one pint of fuel remaining across both tanks.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if more fuel had been added before departure. No other contributing factors were identified in the pilot's account.
Aircraft and Damage
The aircraft sustained damage during the forced landing and subsequent nose-over. Specific details of the damage were not provided. The aircraft type and registration are not mentioned in the source.