Casualties unknown

Pilot Incapacitation and Fuel Exhaustion Lead to Off-Airport Landing in Piper PA-28 (N5688V)

Jamestown, NY, US

On April 30, 1988, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N5688V) operated by Mcguire Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Jamestown, NY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 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

A Piper PA-28-181 made an off-airport landing after the pilot in command became incapacitated due to severe headache and vomiting, and the non-instrument rated pilot continued, resulting in fuel exhaustion.

Flight Departure and Pilot Incapacitation

The Piper PA-28-181 departed with two pilots onboard. Approximately one hour after takeoff, the pilot in command (PIC) experienced a severe headache and vomiting, rendering her unable to continue flying. The other pilot, who was not instrument rated, assumed control of the aircraft.

Continued Flight and Weather Challenges

The non-instrument rated pilot continued the flight. The aircraft made one approach to an airport but missed due to weather conditions. Prior to departure, the PIC had received a weather briefing that included forecast icing conditions. During the flight, the aircraft encountered icing. The aircraft was not equipped with any de-icing equipment other than a heated pitot tube.

Fuel Exhaustion and Landing

While en route to another airport, the aircraft experienced a power loss due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot subsequently performed an off-airport landing in a wooded area.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Apr 1988 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Jamestown, NY?

A Piper PA-28-181 made an off-airport landing after the pilot in command became incapacitated due to severe headache and vomiting, and the non-instrument rated pilot continued, resulting in fuel exhaustion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Apr 1988 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N5688V, operated by Mcguire Aero Club, at Jamestown, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25564. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.