Flight Operations and Communication
While performing fire spotting duties, the pilot reported to the operator that he had been flying for three hours and was headed to get fuel. The operator instructed the pilot to complete another circuit before departing for fuel. Five minutes later, the pilot called the operator to remind him that he had been flying for over three hours and that he was headed to get fuel. The operator acknowledged and told the pilot to report when he was back in the air.
Navigation and Engine Failure
The pilot set his global positioning system (GPS) to his refueling location and estimated it would take approximately twenty-five minutes to reach. While in cruise flight, about eight minutes before reaching his destination, the pilot noticed a decrease in rpm and engine roughness. Shortly after, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power.
Forced Landing and Accident
The pilot executed a forced landing to a field surrounded by trees that he had previously flown over. Upon touchdown, he applied the brakes, but the airplane would not stop due to the wet field. During the landing roll, he made a turn to avoid a ditch at the end of the field. The airplane subsequently hit small trees and an object on the ground, nosed over, and came to rest inverted.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated the accident could have been prevented with the "use [of] better judgment" and by "exercising pilot in command responsibility regarding fuel consumption, wind direction, time and other condition."