Accident Narrative
A pilot conducting a routine pipeline patrol flight at 1,500 feet above ground level experienced an engine failure after approximately 3 hours of flight. The engine sputtered and then ceased producing power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful, and subsequently prepared for an emergency landing in a farm field below. The pilot reported being unable to recall the events that transpired after initiating the landing.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the left main landing gear had collapsed during the landing, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and engine firewall. The fuel system remained intact, but both fuel tanks were empty of fuel. Approximately half a pint of fuel was recovered from the fuel strainer, carburetor supply fuel line, and the carburetor float bowl.
Pilot's Statement
Following the accident, the pilot stated that he did not check the fuel level prior to departing on the accident flight. He commented that the accident could have been prevented by performing a proper preflight inspection of the airplane using the published procedure from the pilot's operating handbook, rather than relying on "repetitive memory."