Flight Details
A student pilot was completing the last leg of a three-leg cross-country flight. He stated that after takeoff, he was given a clearance to climb out to the west. By the time he was able to turn onto his course heading, he found himself off his planned route of flight.
Visibility and Navigation Issues
The pilot reported that haze and the setting sun made it difficult to see, and he was unable to locate his checkpoints to get back on course. He was receiving help from his flight instructor at the time.
Fuel Exhaustion and Landing
While getting assistance, the engine experienced fuel exhaustion. The pilot performed an off-airport landing, choosing a dark area in the terrain on which to land. However, the field was short, and during the landing flare, the airplane contacted trees and nosed over.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings and fuselage.