Accident Overview
On December 28, 2020, about 2000 central standard time, a Cessna 172H, registration N3702R, was substantially damaged during an accident near Cypress, Texas. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was being operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that the engine lost power as he descended to enter the traffic pattern for landing. Efforts to restore engine power were unsuccessful, and he executed a forced landing to an open field. The forced landing resulted in substantial damage to the right wing.
Postaccident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector conducted a postaccident examination of the airplane. No fuel was found in either fuel tank. The operator reported no fuel in the tanks but noted there was fuel in the lines and gascolator. The engine was started and ran normally for about 45 seconds at the accident site. A temporary repair to the right wing was completed, fuel was added to the fuel tanks, and the airplane was ferried to an airport for permanent repairs. The engine performed normally during the ferry flight.