Accident Details
A pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power while conducting a cross-country flight at night. The pilot executed a forced landing to an open field characterized by rough terrain. The flight had originally departed at 4:30, and the power loss occurred after 4 hours and 18 minutes in the air. According to records, the fuel tanks had been topped off before departure.
Fuel Management Analysis
Performance data for the aircraft indicated that under the prevailing conditions, it would have had an endurance of 6 hours and 33 minutes. However, the engine stopped due to fuel exhaustion after only 4 hours and 18 minutes. The pilot reported that he did not calculate fuel consumption during the flight, as he believed there was sufficient margin based on the fuel quantity at takeoff. No fuel spillage was detected at the landing site, and the aircraft exhibited no fuel leakage stains.
Post-Accident Inspection
A subsequent test run was performed on the carburetor, which was taken from an overhauled engine. The test results showed that the fuel metering was within acceptable limits, indicating that the carburetor functioned properly. The investigation did not find any evidence of fuel system malfunctions.