Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes into Trees Short of Runway on Cross-Country Flight (N8289T)

Keene, NH, US

On September 26, 1988, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8289T) operated by P.c.g. Air was involved in an aviation accident near Keene, NH. 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

During a cross-country flight, an aircraft impacted trees approximately 3 miles from the landing runway. The fuel selector was found set to an empty tank, with no fuel in the lines and no leaks detected.

Accident Details

The pilot sustained a head injury and was unable to provide details of the accident. The aircraft struck trees about three miles short of the intended landing runway at the conclusion of a cross-country flight.

Post-Accident Examination

An FAA inspector examined the wreckage. The fuel selector was positioned on the right fuel tank, which was empty. Further inspection revealed no fuel in any of the lines between the fuel selector and the engine. There was no evidence of a leak from the selected fuel tank. The left wing had separated from the fuselage during the accident and was found hanging in a tree at the time of the examination.

Engine Condition

After the accident, the engine was run and showed no evidence of failure or malfunction.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Sept 1988 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Keene, NH?

During a cross-country flight, an aircraft impacted trees approximately 3 miles from the landing runway. The fuel selector was found set to an empty tank, with no fuel in the lines and no leaks detected.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Sept 1988 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8289T, operated by P.c.g. Air, at Keene, NH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26918. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.