Incident Overview
Shortly before the accident, the pilot contacted Fullerton Airport Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) and requested assistance in locating the airport. According to transcripts of air-to-ground communications and verbal statements from controllers, the pilot appeared disoriented. The pilot subsequently reported a loss of engine power at a point approximately 8 miles east of the airport.
Forced Landing and Collision
During the forced landing that followed the reported power loss, the airplane collided with power lines. The aircraft recovery firm that later recovered the aircraft reported that the fuel system remained intact. Their examination revealed that approximately two gallons of fuel were drained from the right fuel tank, while about four ounces of fuel were obtained from the left tank.
Pilot Statement on Fuel Consumption
The pilot stated that fuel consumption had been higher than anticipated. According to the pilot, this was due to insufficient mixture leaning during the flight and the use of a higher revolutions per minute (rpm) setting than originally planned, which was necessary to maintain a desired airspeed.