Primary finding
Probable cause
Fuel starvation due to the pilot's improper management of the fuel system, and his failure to perform the emergency procedure of repositioning the fuel selector to a tank containing fuel.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During a local flight the pilot experienced a total loss of engine power while cruising at 6500 feet msl. The pilot made a forced landing in the uneven and rough terrain of an open field. The airplane was substantially damaged during the landing touchdown. The crash site elevation was about 1455 feet msl. The pilot indicated that the power loss had resulted from his improper fuel management. According to the pilot, he had '...[run] the engine out of fuel' and had failed to switch fuel tanks to a tank containing fuel.
Source record
Factual narrative
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