Incident Overview
A pilot reported that after departing with full fuel tanks, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes into the flight. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing to a field, where the airplane came to rest inverted.
Witness Accounts
According to a witness, the pilot had inquired about purchasing fuel prior to the initial departure. After some delay, an airport employee offered to refuel the aircraft, but the pilot declined the offer. The witness further stated that, based on the aircraft rental log, the pilot actually departed with the fuel tanks about half full and flew for approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that no fuel was present in the fuel tanks, fuel strainer, carburetor, or carburetor bowl.
Conclusion
The circumstances surrounding the fuel quantity at departure remain unclear due to conflicting reports from the pilot and the rental log. The investigation noted the absence of fuel in the aircraft's fuel system components.