What happened
During the final approach to the airport, a Cessna (type not specified in source) experienced a loss of engine power. The certified flight instructor (C/FI) reported that the aircraft lacked sufficient altitude to reach the runway following the power loss, necessitating a forced landing into a small field. Upon impact, the airplane struck trees and terrain.
The student pilot involved in the flight was partially trapped under the left side of the wreckage. According to the instructor, a steady stream of fuel was flowing onto the student's left side during the event. The student sustained chemical burns on his left shoulder, chest, and back, as confirmed by emergency room documentation.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft's fuel system, including the fuel tanks, lines, and selector valve, revealed no pre-impact anomalies. At the accident site, the gascolator and carburetor were found to be void of fuel. No fuel was recovered from the undamaged right fuel tank or the ruptured left fuel tank, and there was no noticeable smell of fuel or evidence of a spill at the scene. Furthermore, vegetation surrounding the main wreckage showed no signs of blight when inspected one day after the accident.
The investigation found no engine anomalies that would have prevented operation. Prior to departure, both the instructor and student had visually verified that the fuel tanks were half full, totaling 13 gallons, which matched the cockpit gauge indications. Documentation provided by the instructor substantiated this fuel quantity. Given the 13 gallons on board, there was sufficient fuel for the approximately 30-minute flight.
Findings
- The aircraft departed with 13 gallons of fuel, which was adequate for the duration of the flight.
- Environmental conditions at the airport, specifically the temperature and dew point, created a likelihood of light carburetor icing accumulation during cruise or descent engine power settings.