Casualties unknown

Fuel Exhaustion and Nose Gear Collapse During Banner Towing Landing (N5392B)

Milford, IA, US

On June 12, 1982, a Cessna 182B (registration N5392B) operated by Kevin Dudley, Busines And Spor was involved in an aviation accident near Milford, IA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A banner-towing aircraft experienced an engine stoppage after encountering turbulence and low fuel. The pilot landed in a hay field, where the nose gear collapsed. Examination revealed empty left fuel tank and two gallons in the right.

Sequence of Events

The pilot reported low fuel while towing a banner. He flew over the airstrip to release the banner. Shortly after release, the aircraft encountered turbulence, resulting in a steep bank. At approximately that time, the engine stopped. The pilot could not restart the engine and chose to land in a hay field adjacent to the runway. During the landing roll, the nose gear collapsed.

Post-Accident Findings

After the incident, investigators examined the fuel system. The fuel selector was found in the "BOTH" position. The left fuel tank was empty, and the right tank contained two gallons of fuel. Fuel could be drained from the fuel filter.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jun 1982 Cessna 182B accident near Milford, IA?

A banner-towing aircraft experienced an engine stoppage after encountering turbulence and low fuel. The pilot landed in a hay field, where the nose gear collapsed. Examination revealed empty left fuel tank and two gallons in the right.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jun 1982 involved a Cessna 182B, registration N5392B, operated by Kevin Dudley, Busines And Spor, at Milford, IA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03816. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.