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Piper PA-28 crashes in wheat field near Flint after fuel exhaustion (N2492B)

Almont, MI, US

On July 14, 1984, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2492B) operated by Dap II Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Almont, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion. 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 Piper PA-28 Cherokee crashed in a wheat field near Flint, Michigan, on July 14, 1985, after the pilot ran out of fuel while en route from Mackinac Island. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but there were no reports of injuries to the pilot.

What happened

On July 13, the pilot departed Fraser, Michigan, with full fuel tanks and flew to Lakes of the North. The following day, he continued his flight to Mackinac Island. Without refueling at Mackinac Island, the pilot departed for Flint, Michigan.

While en route near Flint, the pilot contacted approach control and reported that he was low on fuel. While receiving vectors to Almont Airport, the engine quit due to fuel exhaustion. The aircraft landed in a wheat field and sustained damage.

The investigation

The investigation revealed that the pilot had departed Mackinac Island without refueling, despite having flown there the previous day. The lack of adequate fuel planning led to the engine failure.

Findings

  • fuel exhaustion
  • The pilot failed to ensure adequate fuel for the flight.
  • The aircraft was a Piper PA-28 Cherokee.
  • The flight phase was en route.
  • The location was near Flint, Michigan.

Safety message

Pilots should plan their flights carefully and ensure they have sufficient fuel for the entire journey, including any potential diversions. Refueling at intermediate stops is crucial when flying long distances or in areas with limited alternatives.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion.
Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jul 1984 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Almont, MI?

A Piper PA-28 Cherokee crashed in a wheat field near Flint, Michigan, on July 14, 1985, after the pilot ran out of fuel while en route from Mackinac Island. The aircraft sustained substantial damage, but there were no reports of injuries to the pilot.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jul 1984 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2492B, operated by Dap II Aviation, at Almont, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel for the flight, which resulted in fuel exhaustion.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40246. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.