Incident Overview
A pilot and passenger flew to a local airport for lunch. The airplane was fully fueled and had no prior reported issues. After lunch, they returned to the departure airstrip.
Sequence of Events
During approach, approximately half a mile from the runway and at about 200 feet above wooded terrain, the engine began to run rough. The pilot reversed course and attempted a landing in an open field. The airplane struck trees and terrain as the engine began to regain power.
Post-Accident Examination
The wreckage was subjected to a post-crash fire. Examination of the engine and airframe did not reveal any evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction. Defoliated trees near the left wing impact site indicated that the left fuel tank had a significant quantity of fuel at the time of impact. The right wing, found near an area of intense fire, showed fuel starvation, fire damage, and hydraulic deformation, indicating that the right fuel tank was almost empty.
Fuel Selector Valve
The fuel selector valve was found in the RIGHT or OFF position. The valve does not have a BOTH selection. Given the flight duration, the airplane would have consumed more than the maximum usable capacity of either wing if fuel was drawn exclusively from that tank.