Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Go-Around Results in Off-Airport Landing (N39955)

Prospectville, PA, US

On November 1, 1983, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N39955) was involved in an aviation accident near Prospectville, PA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

During a go-around after a high approach, the aircraft experienced an engine failure due to fuel starvation. The pilot performed a forced landing in a cornfield, causing damage to the landing gear.

Approach and Go-Around

The pilot reported that while turning onto final approach, the aircraft was too high and positioned to the right of the runway centerline. To correct alignment, the pilot executed a slip to the left. The left fuel tank, which was selected for use, contained a very low quantity of fuel. The approach remained too high, prompting the pilot to initiate a go-around.

Engine Failure

As the aircraft was pulled up during the go-around, the engine ceased operating due to fuel starvation. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful.

Forced Landing

With the engine no longer providing thrust, the pilot conducted a forced landing in a cornfield. During the touchdown and rollout, the aircraft collided with a ditch. The nose landing gear was bent, and the right main landing gear sustained damage.

Investigation

The pilot's account formed the basis of the investigation. No other contributing factors were identified beyond the low fuel state of the selected tank and the subsequent fuel starvation.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Nov 1983 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Prospectville, PA?

During a go-around after a high approach, the aircraft experienced an engine failure due to fuel starvation. The pilot performed a forced landing in a cornfield, causing damage to the landing gear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Nov 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N39955, at Prospectville, PA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44957. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.