Casualties unknown

Fuel Exhaustion Forces Wheels-Up Landing Near Farmingdale (N59728)

Cooperstown, NY, US

On May 30, 1987, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N59728) was involved in an aviation accident near Cooperstown, NY. 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 pilot reported both engines failed due to fuel exhaustion while diverting to an airport, resulting in a wheels-up landing in a field. Investigation confirmed no fuel remained in the tanks.

Incident Summary

A pilot reported a dual engine failure and subsequent forced landing after fuel exhaustion. The aircraft departed Farmingdale with fuel for over two hours. After approximately 40-50 minutes of flight, the right low fuel pressure light and right fuel pump light illuminated steady red. The pilot re-evaluated fuel calculations, concluding sufficient fuel remained, but elected to divert to the nearest airport.

Pilot Report

While approximately six miles from the diversion airport, both fuel warning lights illuminated and both engines stopped. The pilot selected an open field and performed a wheels-up landing. No further details on injuries or aircraft damage were provided.

Investigation Findings

Post-incident inspection revealed no fuel remaining in the aircraft's fuel tanks. The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, number of occupants, or extent of damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 May 1987 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Cooperstown, NY?

A pilot reported both engines failed due to fuel exhaustion while diverting to an airport, resulting in a wheels-up landing in a field. Investigation confirmed no fuel remained in the tanks.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 May 1987 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N59728, at Cooperstown, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31035. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.