What happened
During the initial climb following takeoff, a Cessna 172 experienced a loss of engine power at an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level. The pilot immediately initiated a forced landing into a nearby field. Prior to departure, the pilot believed that the left fuel tank was full.
The investigation
An inspection conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the aircraft's fuel system. While fuel was present in the right main fuel tank as well as the left and right auxiliary tanks, no visible fuel was found in the left main fuel tank. During the recovery process, the crew drained approximately four tablespoons of fuel from the left wing.