Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Results in Emergency Landing and Belly Skid (N5611P)

Danville, IL, US

On November 28, 1987, a Piper PA-24-180 (registration N5611P) operated by Anthony Thompson was involved in an aviation accident near Danville, IL. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on a return flight experienced engine power loss due to fuel exhaustion, leading to an emergency road landing. The pilot delayed gear extension, and the aircraft skidded to a stop on its belly.

Incident Sequence

Earlier in the day, the aircraft was flown from Danville to Rochelle, Illinois. During the return flight without refueling, the engine began losing power. The pilot moved the fuel selector to the right tank, which indicated one-quarter full, and power was restored. However, approximately two minutes later, the engine lost all power and would not restart. The pilot performed an emergency landing on a road. He reportedly delayed extending the landing gear until the aircraft was clear of power lines. When he initiated gear extension, the aircraft touched down before the gear was fully extended. Subsequently, the aircraft settled and skidded to a stop on its belly.

Investigation

Examination of the fuel system revealed that no fuel was remaining.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32503. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.