Accident Details
A student pilot with 32 hours of flight time was conducting his first solo cross country flight. While cruising at 2,500 feet MSL, the engine RPM dropped to 1,500 RPM without warning. The pilot established a glide into the prevailing wind and selected a nearby open field, located 12 miles southeast of his destination airport, for a forced landing.
Emergency Response
Before turning base leg, the pilot declared an emergency on frequency 121.5 and provided his approximate position. He chose not to extend the flaps beyond 10 degrees to ensure the airplane would clear power lines at the north end of the field.
Investigation
Following the landing, an FAA inspector examined the aircraft. The inspector confirmed that the engine had not seized and that fuel was available from both wing tanks. The engine was successfully run after the damaged propeller was replaced. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined. The NTSB noted that a completed Form 6120.1/2 was not received from the pilot or the operator.