What happened
The incident occurred during a local flight operation involving a certified flight instructor (CFI) and a private-rated student pilot. The pair was conducting their fifth touch-and-go landing approach when the engine suddenly failed. At the moment of failure, the CFI was applying power to correct for a low-on-final condition. Despite the immediate application of throttle, there was no response from the engine.
The CFI assumed control and attempted to execute a forced landing in a vacant field nearby. However, the aircraft impacted trees before reaching the intended open area. Post-crash examination of the wreckage confirmed that the fuel tank selected for use was completely empty.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft wreckage was conducted to determine the mechanical status of the engine and fuel system. The examination revealed no evidence of pre-impact mechanical failure or malfunction with the engine itself. The primary finding was related to the fuel selection, confirming that the pilot had selected an empty tank.
Findings
The investigation identified fuel exhaustion as the critical factor in this accident. The sequence of events indicates that the pilot failed to select the correct fuel tank during the approach, leading to a complete lack of fuel supply to the engine when power was required. This resulted in a loss of engine power during a low-altitude maneuver, leaving insufficient altitude and time for a safe recovery.
Safety message
Pilots must ensure that the correct fuel tank is selected and that adequate fuel quantity is available before applying power, especially during critical phases of flight such as touch-and-go landings. Regular cross-checking of fuel quantities and selector positions is essential to prevent fuel exhaustion.