Introduction
An airplane sustained substantial damage after colliding with terrain during a forced landing in an open field. The pilot reported that the engine lost all power mid-flight, leading to an emergency landing.
Flight Details
Prior to takeoff, the pilot visually confirmed both fuel tanks were full by looking into each tank and observing fuel at the filler neck level. During cruise, the pilot adjusted the fuel/air mixture using the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) gauge as a reference. Every 30 minutes throughout the flight, the pilot switched fuel tanks to achieve an even fuel burn.
Power Loss and Forced Landing
Approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes into the flight, the engine lost all power. The pilot switched fuel tanks, and power was restored. Concerned that the other tank might also have been low on fuel, the pilot decided to divert to a nearby airport. After flying an additional 10 minutes, the engine lost all power again. The pilot executed an emergency landing in an open field, during which the airplane collided with terrain.
Aftermath
The airplane sustained substantial damage. A local law enforcement officer who responded to the accident site visually verified that there was no fuel in either fuel tank.