Casualties unknown

Aircraft Experiences Double Engine Failure Due to Fuel Exhaustion During Descent (N76ND)

Medford, OK, US

On January 28, 1987, a Piper PA-31 (registration N76ND) operated by Univ. OF North Dakota was involved in an aviation accident near Medford, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure as a result of fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 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

An aircraft suffered a double engine failure from fuel exhaustion while descending to its destination. The pilot attempted to divert but both engines failed before reaching the alternate runway. A forced landing resulted in substantial damage.

Accident Overview

An aircraft experienced a dual engine failure caused by fuel exhaustion during the descent to its intended destination airport. The pilot attempted to divert to a nearby airport but both engines ceased operation before the runway was assured.

Sequence of Events

While descending, the pilot initiated a diversion to an alternate airport. However, both engines failed prior to the aircraft reaching a position where a safe landing on the runway was guaranteed. The subsequent forced landing resulted in substantial damage when the left engine restarted during the flare, causing the aircraft to spin to the right. The right wing tip struck the ground, yawing the aircraft upon touchdown. All three landing gear collapsed as a result of side loads.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that adverse winds aloft extended the flight duration and prevented arrival at the destination airport. He stated that by the time he became aware of the critical fuel state, it was too late to avoid fuel exhaustion.

Damage

The aircraft sustained substantial damage. The left engine restarted during the landing flare, causing the aircraft to rotate abruptly. The right wing tip contacted the ground, and all three landing gear collapsed due to side loads.

Probable cause

Double engine failure as a result of fuel exhaustion

All Piper PA-31 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jan 1987 Piper PA-31 accident near Medford, OK?

An aircraft suffered a double engine failure from fuel exhaustion while descending to its destination. The pilot attempted to divert but both engines failed before reaching the alternate runway. A forced landing resulted in substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jan 1987 involved a Piper PA-31, registration N76ND, operated by Univ. OF North Dakota, at Medford, OK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Double engine failure as a result of fuel exhaustion

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30078. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.