Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate preflight planning and preparation which resulted in a low fuel condition requiring an off-airport landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot departed from Suffolk, Virginia, at about 1105, with full fuel tanks, en route to Elkins, West Virginia (EKN). While en route at about 6,000 feet above ground level, he encountered weather over the mountains which prevented him from continuing direct to EKN under visual meteorological conditions. At that time he chose to fly north, up the valley, in hopes of finding a break in the weather. After about 40 minutes, he was unable to continue due to low fuel, and decided to land in a farm pasture. Upon landing, he discovered the grass to be much taller than anticipated. The airplane became entangled, resulting in a nose-over that substantially damaged the vertical stabilizer and wings. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot departed Suffolk Executive Airport (SFQ), Suffolk, Virginia, at about 1105, with full fuel tanks, enroute to Elkins, (EKN), West Virginia. While enroute at about 6,000 feet above ground level, he encountered weather over the mountains which prevented him from continuing direct to EKN under visual meteorological conditions. At that time he chose to fly north up the valley in hopes of finding a break in the weather. After about 40 minutes, he was unable to continue due to low fuel, and decided to land in a farm pasture. Upon landing, he discovered the grass to be much taller than anticipated. The airplane became entangled resulting in a nose over substantially damaging the vertical stabilizer and wings. The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions.