Incident Details
A newly certificated pilot was conducting a cross-country flight. During the flight, the pilot did not consider the engine's fuel burn for touch-and-go landings or headwinds. On final approach to the destination airport, the engine lost power. Observing homes aligned with the approach end of the runway, the pilot decided against continuing to the runway and instead performed an emergency landing in a field. During the off-airport landing, the airplane slid and came to rest in trees.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector conducted a post-accident examination. The fuel gauges read zero. No fuel was found in the right fuel tank, and only 10 ounces of fuel were recovered from the left fuel tank. After additional fuel was added, the engine started and operated normally.
Pilot Statement
During a conversation with the inspector, the pilot "basically admitted" that he did not properly monitor the engine's fuel consumption.