History of the Flight
On 5 February 2019, Cessna 172S aircraft VT-RDX, operated by Academy of Carver Aviation, departed Baramati at 1030 hours local time for a solo cross-country training flight to Akalkot and return. The student pilot, acting as pilot-in-command, reported that pre-flight checks indicated 200 litres of fuel and 8 quarts of oil. The flight proceeded normally until the return leg. At approximately 17 nautical miles from Baramati, the pilot observed a sudden drop in engine RPM. Despite increasing throttle, engine power deteriorated and the engine stopped. The pilot declared an emergency and executed a forced landing in an open field. During the landing, the left wing struck a tree, and the aircraft impacted the ground, turning 90 degrees before stopping.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot sustained a fracture of the right arm and multiple abrasions to the face and hands. No other injuries were reported.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft was damaged beyond economical repair.
Personnel Information
The pilot held a Student Pilot License valid until 16 June 2019 and was endorsed for the Cessna 172. Total flying experience was 131 hours 25 minutes, all on type, with 71 hours 50 minutes as pilot-in-command.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a Cessna 172S, a four-place, high-wing monoplane with a single Lycoming IO-360 L2A engine rated at 160 horsepower. It was equipped with a fixed-pitch propeller and fixed tricycle landing gear.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined the probable cause was fuel exhaustion leading to loss of engine power.