Overview
An airplane sustained a loss of engine power, leading the pilot to execute a forced landing. The pilot reported flying the aircraft the previous day and not refueling prior to the accident flight. The estimated round trip distance was approximately 425 miles, with a cruise speed of 100 miles per hour and fuel consumption between 7.5 and 8.5 gallons per hour. The pilot stated in a written account that, after calculating fuel consumption, he determined there would not have been enough fuel.
Forced Landing and Damage
The pilot performed the forced landing in a snow-covered field. During the landing, the airplane nosed over after striking a fence line. The pilot noted that he had not planned total fuel for the flight and preflight warm-up.
Post-Accident Examination
An on-scene examination of the aircraft found no preexisting anomalies with respect to the aircraft, its engine, or systems. No fuel was detected in the line from the fuel pump to the carburetor. Additionally, no fuel was found in any of the fuel tanks, and no fuel stains were observed on the ground surrounding the aircraft.