Incident Summary
While on a round robin cross-country flight, the aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot initiated an emergency landing procedure targeting a 1,800-foot-long private airstrip. The approach was described as high and fast, prompting the pilot to attempt a turn and land in the opposite direction. The aircraft subsequently landed hard on rough terrain, coming to rest approximately 200 feet short of the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the aircraft revealed that the only fuel remaining in the tanks was unusable fuel. The pilot reported that he did not physically check the fuel quantity prior to departure. Additionally, one of the two fuel quantity gauges was inoperative.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he did not perform a physical inspection of the fuel levels before departing. He also noted that the aircraft was equipped with two fuel gauges, one of which was not functioning at the time of the flight.