What happened
On 29 June 2002, a Piper PA-28-161, registration G-BUIJ, was performing a private flight when the engine lost power during the landing sequence. The aircraft was positioned for a visual circuit onto Runway 26 at Blackbushe Airport. While the pilot was turning onto the final approach at an altitude of roughly 400 feet, the engine ceased functioning.
In response to the power loss, the pilot identified a suitable field for an emergency landing and issued a 'MAYDAY' call to Blackbushe. The aircraft reached the field and came to a rapid stop in long grass. Following the landing, the pilot confirmed via radio that both the pilot and the single passenger sustained no injuries.
The investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's fuel system following the incident. A visual inspection of the fuel tanks revealed that while the left tank contained approximately 10 gallons of fuel, the right tank was empty. At the moment the engine power was lost, the engine was receiving fuel from the right-hand tank.