Accident Overview
A student pilot on a solo cross-country flight encountered a loss of engine power while cruising at 3,000 feet. The pilot had moved the fuel selector to a position between the fuel tank detents, which preceded the power loss. An emergency landing was made in a nearby field, resulting in major structural damage to the airplane.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures. The investigation concluded that the engine power loss occurred due to the fuel selector being placed in a detent position that likely interrupted fuel flow to the engine.
Sequence of Events
The student pilot was conducting a solo cross-country flight. At cruise altitude, the pilot manipulated the fuel selector, placing it between the tank detents. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost power. The pilot executed an emergency landing in a field, and the aircraft sustained significant structural damage.
Conclusion
The event was attributed to the pilot's inadvertent positioning of the fuel selector, which led to fuel starvation and subsequent engine failure.