Skyhawk 172/Cutlass 172
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 65; Flight Crew Total 6200; Flight Crew Type 530
Situational Awareness
Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Aircraft; Human Factors
I took off with full fuel; 36 gallons; that I verified on the ground. I used [a] website to plan the flight. At 110 knots TAS [my route] was planned to take 3:45. Using the performance charts I estimated 2.9 gallons to climb to an altitude of 8;500 feet and then a fuel burn of 8 gallons per hour in cruise.Approximately 15 NM from my destination the engine began to sputter and power was reduced. I had begun a descent at the request of Approach from 8;500 feet to 4;500 feet. When I recognized the fuel starvation I informed ATC and requested vectors to the best landing area as well as information on the local terrain. There was also a 172 in the area that gave local information. I spotted a nice field with little obstruction and chose to land at that spot. I was able to make the approach to landing without further incident.After landing; with the assistance of the landowner; I purchased 10 gallons of auto fuel at a local gas station and poured 5 gallons in each wing tank. In the process spilling around .5 gallons from each tank.After being released by the local authorities and the FAA I started the aircraft; performed a run-up and attempted to take off. During the roll; at 40 KIAS I hit a small bump that made the aircraft become airborne with the stall warning horn. I rejected the takeoff and came to a stop at the end of the runway.I taxied the aircraft for a longer takeoff roll and attempted to depart again. I was able to depart the field and land at my destination without further incident.
C172 pilot reported making an off airport landing because of fuel starvation.