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Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Crashes After Becoming Lost on Cross-Country Flight Without Directional Gyro (N2490G)

Preston, IA, US

On December 31, 1983, a Piper PA-38 (registration N2490G) was involved in an aviation accident near Preston, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate navigation, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot became lost during a cross-country flight because the aircraft lacked a directional gyro, relying solely on a magnetic compass. He flew until fuel exhaustion and crash landed in a field near power lines.

What happened

The student pilot initiated a cross-country flight without installing a directional gyro in the aircraft. Before departure, he consulted with his instructor, who advised that the magnetic compass would provide sufficient navigation for the trip. During the third leg of the journey, the pilot selected an incorrect heading and subsequently lost his position.

The aircraft continued flying until it ran out of fuel. The pilot then executed a forced landing in a field after crossing over power lines located near the edge of the landing area.

Findings

  • No directional gyro installed
  • Fuel exhaustion
  • Loss of navigation due to incorrect heading

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate navigation, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Dec 1983 Piper PA-38 accident near Preston, IA?

A student pilot became lost during a cross-country flight because the aircraft lacked a directional gyro, relying solely on a magnetic compass. He flew until fuel exhaustion and crash landed in a field near power lines.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Dec 1983 involved a Piper PA-38, registration N2490G, at Preston, IA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate navigation, which resulted in fuel exhaustion and a subsequent forced landing.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45388. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.