Airplane Impacted Ditch During Emergency Landing After Engine Failure (N3772D)

Accident Sequence

The accident occurred when the airplane lost engine power during flight. The pilot reported that the engine "popped" twice before the loss of power. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the pilot was unsuccessful. A pilot-rated passenger prepared for an emergency landing at the intended destination airport. However, they realized the airplane would not reach the runway and prepared to "ditch." The airplane touched down in a cornfield and subsequently impacted a ditch, resulting in substantial damage.

Examination Findings

Following the accident, an FAA inspector examined the airplane. The left fuel tank contained five gallons of fuel. The fuel tank strainer and associated fittings were pulled from the right wing. The strainer was destroyed but showed no signs of blockage prior to the accident. No fuel was observed in the right tank or in the fuel inlet line of the carburetor. The airframe and engine were examined, and no anomalies were found.