N4816B

On August 3, 1993, at approximately 0100 central daylight time, a Cessna 152, N4816B, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Timpson, Texas. The pilot and his passenger received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for this personal flight.

The following is based on the pilot's accident report. The pilot said he visually checked both fuel tanks and confirmed the fuel level was up to the tank filler neck. He and his father departed Lakefront Airport, New Orleans, Louisiana, at 2045. When the airplane was about 18 miles west of Center, Texas, the pilot noticed the fuel gauges indicated one eighth full, or approximately eight to 10 gallons remaining. The pilot turned around and proceeded back towards the airport at Center. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost power and the fuel gauges registered near empty. A no flap landing was accomplished in an open field, but the airplane collided with trees and a fence during the landing roll. According to Texas Department of Public Safety officials, the pilot said the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion.