Flight on September 27, 1996
On September 27, 1996, a pilot departed Newport News, Virginia (PHF) on a flight to Collegeville, Pennsylvania (N10). After 3.6 hours of flight time, the pilot landed at Blairstown, New Jersey, having flown beyond the intended destination. Air traffic control assisted the pilot due to low fuel. The airplane was refueled with 40.2 gallons of fuel. The pilot then flew back to N10 in 1.1 hours.
Following Day's Return Flight
The next day, the airplane was refueled again with 15.8 gallons of fuel. The pilot then departed for the return flight to PHF. After 3.2 hours of flight, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing on a golf course, where the airplane sustained damage.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed approximately 30 ounces of fuel remaining in the aircraft. The total fuel capacity was 42 gallons, of which 38 gallons were considered usable. No pre-accident mechanical problems were found.
Pilot Information
The pilot obtained her private pilot certificate on September 23, 1996, and was checked out in the accident airplane on September 27, 1996. She had an estimated 67 hours of total flight experience.