Engine Power Loss During Approach Leads to Collision with Trees (N23652)

Incident Sequence

The flight arrived at the destination airport, and the pilot completed an instrument approach. Low clouds prevented a landing, so the pilot requested a second instrument approach. While on a five-mile final, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power. Efforts to restart the engine failed, and the airplane collided with trees five miles short of the airport.

Examination Findings

Examination of the airframe did not disclose a mechanical problem or a system malfunction. During inspection of the wing assembly, no fuel was recovered from the left fuel tank. The right wing displayed evidence of hydraulic fluid action in the vicinity of the fuel tank installation; the left fuel bladder was not damaged. The engine operated through all power ranges during a functional test. The aircraft fuel selector was found in the left tank position.