Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Emergency Landing After Fuel Exhaustion (N757EJ)

Tunas, MO, US

On July 4, 1989, a Cessna 152 (registration N757EJ) was involved in an aviation accident near Tunas, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO FUEL EXHAUSTION BECAUSE OF IMPROPER FLIGHT PLANNING BY THE PILOT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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 commercial pilot reported engine failure ten minutes after takeoff. Emergency landing caused substantial aircraft damage and minor pilot injuries. Investigation found empty fuel tanks.

Incident Overview

A commercial pilot encountered an engine failure approximately ten minutes after departure. The pilot executed an emergency landing, which resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft and minor injuries to the pilot.

Pilot Statement

According to the pilot, she estimated having about 5.5 gallons of fuel remaining in the tanks prior to takeoff. She was en route to an airport located about 25 miles away that had fuel facilities, intending to refuel there.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel tanks contained no usable fuel. The investigation did not specify any additional mechanical issues or contributing factors.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the emergency landing. The pilot suffered minor injuries. No other injuries were reported.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Jul 1989 Cessna 152 accident near Tunas, MO?

A commercial pilot reported engine failure ten minutes after takeoff. Emergency landing caused substantial aircraft damage and minor pilot injuries. Investigation found empty fuel tanks.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Jul 1989 involved a Cessna 152, registration N757EJ, at Tunas, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO FUEL EXHAUSTION BECAUSE OF IMPROPER FLIGHT PLANNING BY THE PILOT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28929. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.