Accident Summary
During a training descent, the student pilot attempted to level the airplane at 3,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) when the engine lost power. The flight instructor assumed control and maneuvered for a forced landing while the student attempted an engine restart. The aircraft subsequently came to rest in trees approximately one-quarter mile from a private airport. The student pilot held a private pilot certificate and was receiving instrument training; he had accumulated 250 total flight hours, including 77 hours in the accident aircraft type.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the electric fuel boost pump was switched off. The student did not mention this when interviewed about his emergency procedures. Testing showed the engine would run with the electric fuel boost pump activated, but would not operate using only the engine-driven fuel pump. Disassembly of the engine-driven fuel pump found its drive shaft had failed and the bearings were frozen. Small aluminum particles were present in the bearings; however, the source of these particles could not be determined.
Maintenance History
The failed engine-driven fuel pump had been removed from the airplane, shipped to an overhaul facility, and reinstalled 52.3 flight hours before the accident. The origin of the aluminum particles found in the pump bearings remained unidentified.