Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Forced Landing Near Terre Haute (N44042)

Terre Haute, IN, US

On December 27, 1983, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N44042) was involved in an aviation accident near Terre Haute, IN. 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 single-engine aircraft made a forced landing after the engine quit approximately 7 miles south-southeast of Terre Haute, Indiana. The fuel tanks were found empty at the accident site.

Accident Overview

A single-engine aircraft was forced to make an off-airport landing after its engine ceased operation. The incident occurred approximately 7 miles south-southeast of Terre Haute, Indiana, at 2130 local time. An FAA inspector examined the aircraft at the accident site and reported that the fuel tanks were empty.

Flight Details

According to the pilot, the flight departed Wichita Falls, Texas, at 1516 with 48 gallons of fuel on board. While en route, when the aircraft was about 7 miles south-southeast of Terre Haute, the engine stopped running. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. At the time of the engine failure, the fuel gauges indicated between 1/16 and 1/8 of a tank.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the forced landing, an FAA inspector examined the aircraft. The inspection revealed that the fuel tanks were empty. No other information regarding the aircraft type, registration, or number of occupants was provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Dec 1983 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Terre Haute, IN?

A single-engine aircraft made a forced landing after the engine quit approximately 7 miles south-southeast of Terre Haute, Indiana. The fuel tanks were found empty at the accident site.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Dec 1983 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N44042, at Terre Haute, IN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45252. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.