Preflight and Fuel Planning
During preflight inspection, the pilot determined that approximately 12 gallons of fuel were on board. The intended destination was 12 miles from the departure airport, with an estimated en route time of 15 minutes. Consequently, the pilot decided not to refuel the airplane before departure.
Flight and Approach
The pilot flew to the destination and entered the traffic pattern. After establishing a visual flight rules (VFR) final approach to land on Runway 36, the pilot reported that the 'air was quite rough.' Shortly thereafter, the engine 'suddenly slowed down and stopped.'
Engine Stoppage and Forced Landing
At the time of the engine stoppage, the airplane's altitude was too low to attempt a restart or to reach the runway. As a result, the pilot was forced to land the airplane in the trees. According to the pilot, 'the trouble was probably caused by the rough air sloshing the fuel in the left tank, causing slugs of air to enter the fuel line to the fuel pump.'