Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Guard Rail During Emergency Landing on Interstate After Fuel Exhaustion (N99QE)

Lake Station, IN, US

On February 26, 1987, a Beech C-35 (registration N99QE) was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Station, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft struck a guard rail during an emergency landing on Interstate 80 after fuel exhaustion. The pilot had visually inspected fuel before the flight and believed it was sufficient.

Incident Overview

The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on Interstate 80 after its engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. During the landing, the aircraft struck a guard rail.

Pilot's Fuel Assessment

Before the first leg of the flight, the pilot visually inspected the fuel supply and thought there was enough fuel for the trip.

Post-Accident Investigation

Following the accident, personnel from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Indiana State Police examined the aircraft. The inspection revealed that the fuel tanks were empty, and there were no signs of fuel leakage.

Probable cause

Fuel exhaustion

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Feb 1987 Beech C-35 accident near Lake Station, IN?

An aircraft struck a guard rail during an emergency landing on Interstate 80 after fuel exhaustion. The pilot had visually inspected fuel before the flight and believed it was sufficient.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Feb 1987 involved a Beech C-35, registration N99QE, at Lake Station, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Fuel exhaustion

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30212. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.