Incident Overview
A student pilot was conducting a local solo flight, practicing maneuvers for approximately two hours, when she decided to return to the departure airport. During the return, she became disoriented and reported losing her way, stating that visibility was deteriorating and she was looking for any airport to land at.
Fuel Status and Engine Failure
The pilot noted that the airplane was low on fuel, having had 11.5 gallons at the last takeoff. The engine then suddenly shut off and restarted. Deciding that a landing at an airport was not possible, she sought suitable off-airport terrain.
Landing and Damage
The pilot landed on a grass strip, the only available landing site. During the landing, the airplane struck a tree, causing the nose gear to collapse. Post-accident examination revealed that approximately 15 total ounces of fuel were drained from the fuel strainer on the firewall, the right fuel tank, and the left fuel tank. The airplane sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Experience
The pilot was a student on a solo flight at the time of the incident.