Pre-Flight and Initial Flight
The pilot checked that both fuel tanks were full and positioned the fuel selector to the right tank prior to the banner tow flight. After flying for nearly an hour, the pilot observed the right tank fuel quantity between one-half and one-quarter full. The pilot considered it too early to switch tanks and continued without further fuel checks.
Loss of Engine Power
Engaged in the activities of the flight, the pilot did not monitor the fuel tanks again. At an altitude of 1,000 feet above ground level and 1.9 hours into the flight, the engine lost power. Two attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
The pilot initiated a forced landing to an open area. Upon touchdown, the airplane struck the ground, bounced once, and flipped over, coming to rest inverted. The banner remained attached and was not released during the forced landing.