Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Prompts Emergency Landing on Gravel Road (N18307)

Strong, AR, US

On May 27, 1989, a Beech V35 (registration N18307) was involved in an aviation accident near Strong, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO FUEL STARVATION. 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

A pilot reported an engine failure 25 miles from the destination, switched fuel tanks, but could not restart. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during a landing on a rural gravel road.

Incident Overview

Approximately 25 miles from the intended destination, the pilot reported that the engine ceased operation. The pilot switched the fuel selector from the left tank, which was empty, to the right tank, which still indicated half to three-quarters full. Despite this action, the pilot was unable to restart the engine. Given the aircraft's altitude of 1,500 feet above ground level, the pilot decided to perform an emergency landing.

Emergency Landing and Damage

The landing was made on a rural gravel road. During the landing, the aircraft sustained substantial damage. No further details about the extent of damage or other consequences were provided.

Fuel System Details

The pilot stated that the left fuel cell bladder had been replaced three days prior to the accident due to previous leaks. Investigative authorities reported that documentation for this replacement was not found.

Investigation Status

No probable cause has been determined. The investigation continues into the circumstances of the engine failure and the fuel system maintenance history.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28410. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.