Incident Summary
A single-engine airplane experienced an engine power loss while on a night cross-country flight, necessitating a forced landing in a soft, muddy field under dark night conditions. The pilot reported that the aircraft had been airborne for approximately 3.6 hours since takeoff.
Flight Details
The flight departed from Roanoke, Texas, with the destination of College Station, Texas. En route, the pilot encountered strong winds and noted that he strayed off course several times. The circumstances leading to the engine power loss were not specified beyond these reports.
Post-Landing Inspection
After the forced landing, both wing fuel tanks were drained. A total of one gallon of fuel was recovered from the tanks. The engine power loss occurred in dark night conditions, and the landing was made to a soft, muddy field. No further details about the aircraft or pilot were provided.
Investigation
As of the report, the investigation had not released a probable cause for the engine power loss. The pilot's statements about strong winds and navigation challenges were documented, but no causal link was established between these factors and the power loss.