Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Gear Failure (N91919)

Britton, SD, US

On August 16, 1982, a Cessna A188B (registration N91919) operated by Dakota AG Service was involved in an aviation accident near Britton, SD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot stated that the aircraft ran out of fuel. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that the aircraft ran out of fuel after estimating insufficient fuel for the task, leading to an engine power loss, a forced landing in a stubble field, and right main landing gear failure during a turn to avoid a fence.

Accident Overview

While returning from a spraying operation, a pilot experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot had estimated a fuel quantity of 19 to 20 gallons remaining before departing to spray the last field for the day, expecting the job to consume 16 to 17 gallons. Approximately one hour later, as the pilot was returning to land, the engine lost power.

Forced Landing and Ground Incident

The pilot executed a forced landing in a stubble field. However, before the landing roll was complete, the aircraft was approaching a fence. The pilot turned to avoid the fence, causing the aircraft to slide into a furrow. As a result, the right main landing gear failed.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that the aircraft ran out of fuel.

Damage

The right main landing gear was damaged as a result of the ground incident.

Probable cause

The pilot stated that the aircraft ran out of fuel.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03192. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.