Incident Overview
A pilot experienced an engine failure while en route, forcing an off-airport landing in a field. The pilot reported departing with 14 gallons of fuel and later diverting to an alternate airport 15 miles from the original destination due to ground fog. Approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes after departure, the engine stopped, which the pilot attributed to a lack of fuel.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that after the engine failed, they estimated the fuel remaining in the tank to be “maybe an 1/8 cup,” and added that “a tablespoon may be more accurate.” The pilot further noted that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing, left aileron, and empennage during the off-airport landing.
Cause
Based on the pilot’s report, the engine failure resulted from fuel exhaustion.