Accident Overview
A general aviation airplane experienced a total loss of engine power while in flight, necessitating a forced landing on an interstate highway. During the landing sequence, the aircraft contacted a guard rail and a ditch before coming to rest.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he had initially flown past his intended destination airport and was turning back when the engine power loss occurred. At an altitude of 3,000 feet mean sea level (msl), the engine began to sputter intermittently. The pilot immediately checked the engine gauges, which indicated normal readings, and switched fuel tanks. Upon descending to approximately 2,000 feet msl, the engine ceased producing power entirely. The pilot applied carburetor heat and, noting the mixture was leaned, moved the mixture control to full rich. He attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful.
Landing Decision and Execution
The pilot evaluated potential landing sites, including a small field, a gravel pit, and the highway. He chose to land on the highway and intentionally maintained an airspeed between 75 and 80 miles per hour to match the speed of highway traffic. During the landing, the airplane bounced and struck a guard rail, then spun around and contacted a ditch before coming to rest.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the airplane was secured on a flatbed trailer, and an engine test run was conducted using an alternate fuel supply. The engine started and ran smoothly up to 1,900 rpm. No mechanical failure or malfunction was found that would have resulted in the loss of engine power.