Event Overview
A private pilot with 93 hours of flight experience was flying toward East Texas Regional Airport (GGG) with the intention of landing. After contacting approach control and being handed off to the control tower, the aircraft was approximately four miles west of the airport when the engine suddenly lost power. The revolutions per minute (RPM) dropped without command from 2,500 RPM to about 1,000 RPM.
Engine Problem
The pilot attempted to manipulate the throttle to various positions but could not change the RPM. The engine issue was reported to the control tower, and the pilot was cleared to land on any runway and from any direction. However, the aircraft was unable to reach the airport, and the pilot decided to land in a field.
Forced Landing
During the descent, at approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine momentarily surged with power before returning to about 1,000 RPM. Committed to the landing, the pilot turned off the engine ignition switch and directed the airplane between two trees in an effort to reach a suitable landing area. While maneuvering through the trees, the outer portion of the right wing contacted a tree. Shortly after, the airplane settled to the ground in an upright position.
Post-Accident Findings
An inspector from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the accident site. Both fuel tanks were intact and contained residual fuel. About one inch of fuel was drained from each tank, and there was no evidence of any fuel spill or leaks at the location.