Accident Summary
The pilot of an aircraft departing from Blaine, Washington, experienced a complete loss of engine power while en route back to the point of origin. The resulting forced landing was conducted in a wetlands area, and the aircraft came to rest inverted. Post-accident examination revealed no evidence of fuel at the accident site, and a subsequent test run of the engine was completed successfully.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's account, the aircraft departed Blaine with an estimated 15 gallons of fuel onboard. The flight proceeded to a local field approximately 35 miles away, where the pilot performed multiple touch-and-go landings. Although fuel was available at that field, the pilot did not refuel the aircraft. Approximately 90 minutes after the initial departure, while en route back to Blaine, the engine stopped operating. The pilot then executed an emergency landing off the airport in a wetlands area.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the aircraft found no fuel present at the accident site. The engine was tested and ran satisfactorily, indicating no mechanical malfunction. The pilot later reported to an FAA inspector that the fuel exhaustion was the cause of the engine stoppage.