Accident Overview
A cross-country flight experienced an engine failure due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot had begun the trip with an estimated 4 hours of fuel, planning for a 3-hour flight. However, stronger-than-forecast headwinds increased fuel consumption.
Sequence of Events
While over an airport along the route, the pilot realized the headwinds were much stronger than forecast. He calculated that he had 1 hour of fuel remaining and 30 minutes of flight time to his destination. As he approached his destination, an air traffic controller provided vectors. During this phase, the airplane's engine sputtered and stopped producing power. The pilot successfully restarted the engine, but it soon stopped again and could not be restarted.
With the engine inoperative, the pilot performed a forced landing in dark night conditions, choosing a small opening in the trees.
Post-Accident Observations
First rescue personnel on scene reported that they did not smell an obvious odor of aviation fuel. The pilot told rescuers that he believed he had run out of fuel and that the engine quit as a result.
Aircraft Damage
Examination of the airplane revealed that the fuselage was bent upward immediately behind the cabin area. Both wings were bent and wrinkled.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not specify a determined probable cause. The pilot's belief that fuel exhaustion occurred is noted, but no official cause was stated in the source.