Incident Overview
A pilot was conducting a cross-country flight. The airplane had been airborne for approximately 3.5 hours. As the flight neared the destination airport, the engine began to sputter. The pilot immediately activated the electric fuel pump and switched fuel tank selection from the right to the left tank.
Power Loss and Forced Landing
About half a mile from the runway, the engine lost total power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a marsh area. Upon touchdown, the airplane came to rest inverted.
Pilot's Statement
In a post-accident statement, the pilot expressed surprise at the low quantity of fuel remaining in the left tank, which was the first tank used. The pilot noted that after switching tanks approximately halfway through the flight, there was likely only a fraction of a gallon left in the left tank. The pilot remarked that if the tank had been run completely dry at altitude with only half the trip completed, the need for refueling en route would have been recognized.
Examination and Findings
No further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, or additional details was provided in the source. The incident highlights the importance of fuel management during flight.