On September 17, 1993, a Kewley KR2 (registration N25DK) operated by David A. Kewley was involved in an aviation accident near Carbondale, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION DUE TO LACK OF FUEL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While descending for landing, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot's restart attempts failed, and a forced landing was made in a field. The pilot believed the engine stopped due to fuel exhaustion.
Incident Overview
During descent for an approach to land, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. Recognizing that the airport could not be reached, the pilot initiated a forced landing in a nearby field.
Pilot Actions
The pilot's attempts to restore engine power proved futile. After determining that the airplane would not be able to glide to the intended airport, the pilot elected to perform an emergency landing in an open field. The forced landing was carried out without further incident.
Investigation
An investigating officer from the local sheriff's department reported that the pilot believed the engine stopped running because it was "out of fuel." No other contributing factors were identified in the preliminary information provided by the officer.