Forced Landing After Engine Power Loss Near Salt Lake City (N102AK)

Incident Overview and Weather Conditions The pilot received a weather briefing before departing from Chico, California, with the intended destination of Heber, Utah. During the flight, the pilot encountered thunderstorms and rain while approximately fourteen miles west of Heber. ## Approach and Engine Failure The pilot contacted Salt Lake City Approach Control and was instructed to descend to 5,500 feet. The aircraft was then vectored toward Salt Lake City Municipal Airport. Approximately six miles southeast of the airport, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine by switching fuel tanks, but these efforts were unsuccessful. ## Forced Landing and Aftermath The pilot executed a forced landing in a rolling field that was surrounded by power lines. The aircraft struck the ground and rolled approximately 100 to 125 feet uphill. During the impact, the engine separated from the firewall, and a fire erupted between the engine and the firewall. The pilot quickly extinguished the fire. ## Maintenance and Fuel History The aircraft had received an annual inspection on July 20, 1998, during which it was refueled. The aircraft did not fly again until the day of the accident. The pilot did not physically inspect the fuel tanks prior to departing from Chico.