Incident Overview
A pilot reported a loss of engine power while entering the traffic pattern after completing a banner towing flight. The event occurred at an altitude of approximately 800 feet MSL, shortly after the pilot had been at 1,000 feet AGL and was maneuvering to land on runway 12.
Power Loss and Response
According to the pilot, the engine began to run rough, coughed, and then lost power. In response, the pilot maneuvered the airplane toward a pasture while executing the engine restart checklist and dropping the banner. Although the engine surged a couple of times, it did not regain power.
Forced Landing
The pilot performed a forced landing in an open field located about 3 miles from the airport. The airplane touched down in a three-point attitude. During the landing roll, it impacted several small trees and went through a fence line. No further details were provided regarding the extent of damage or the condition of the occupants.
Engine Information
The engine had accumulated a total of 2,659 hours of operation, with 1,175 hours since its last overhaul.
Investigation Outcome
The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined during the investigation.