Accident Overview
A student pilot and a certified flight instructor (CFI) were conducting a short 6-nautical-mile flight when the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power during the base leg of the traffic pattern at the destination airport. The CFI took control and attempted to land at the airport, but the airplane collided with terrain about 1/4 mile short of the runway.
Preflight and Fuel Status
The student pilot reported that during the preflight inspection, the CFI interrupted her to ask that she put items in the baggage compartment. As a result, the student did not check the airplane's fuel quantity and could not recall whether the instructor completed the preflight inspection.
Post-accident examination revealed that the left fuel tank was full of fuel, while the right fuel tank was empty. The right tank had not been breached, and there was no evidence of leakage from other system components or fuel lines. The fuel selector valve was found positioned on the right tank.
Aircraft and System Condition
The airplane's manual states that takeoff is prohibited with less than 11 gallons in each tank. An examination of the airframe and engine found no evidence of pre-mishap mechanical malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The student pilot did not recall the instructor manipulating the fuel selector or turning on the fuel pump after the engine lost power.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the loss of engine power was due to fuel starvation, as the engine was drawing fuel from the empty right tank while the left tank contained ample fuel. No other mechanical issues were identified.