Incident Overview
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power while nearing the destination airport, leading to a forced landing that resulted in a hard touchdown. The pilot had refueled the aircraft personally prior to departure and reported performing fuel consumption calculations during the flight.
Sequence of Events
As the pilot approached the destination airport, the engine began to run roughly and then abruptly lost all power. The pilot turned the aircraft toward the airport but found himself too low and too far out to execute a normal traffic pattern. He configured the aircraft for a final approach to runway 08, which was downwind, and reported being unable to maintain control. The aircraft landed abruptly without a landing flare.
Postaccident Examination
Following the incident, an examination of the aircraft revealed that the right-hand fuel cap was missing. Furthermore, when electrical power was applied to the aircraft, both fuel tank quantity indicators registered empty.