Casualties unknown

Fuel Exhaustion Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over in New York Field (N3154T)

Akron, NY, US

On July 9, 1989, a Cessna 177A (registration N3154T) was involved in an aviation accident near Akron, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION, DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: SOFT TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot on a return flight from Oneonta to Lockport, New York, experienced engine roughness due to fuel exhaustion. After switching fuel tanks and requesting vectors, the aircraft was forced to land in a cultivated field, resulting in a nose-over.

Incident Overview

A pilot was conducting a return flight to North Buffalo Suburban Airport in Lockport, New York, after an overnight stay in Oneonta, New York. During the flight, the engine began to run rough while the fuel selector was positioned on the left tank. The pilot then switched the fuel selector to the right tank and contacted Buffalo Approach Control, requesting vectors to the nearest airport.

Forced Landing and Damage

The aircraft did not reach the intended airport. Instead, it was landed in a cultivated field. During the landing, the nose wheel dug into the dirt, causing the aircraft to nose over. An examination of the aircraft post-incident revealed that less than a cup of fuel remained in the fuel system.

Investigation Findings

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or occupant injuries were provided in the source. The investigation did not assign a probable cause.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jul 1989 Cessna 177A accident near Akron, NY?

A pilot on a return flight from Oneonta to Lockport, New York, experienced engine roughness due to fuel exhaustion. After switching fuel tanks and requesting vectors, the aircraft was forced to land in a cultivated field, resulting in a nose-over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jul 1989 involved a Cessna 177A, registration N3154T, at Akron, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

IMPROPER PLANNING/DECISION BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION, DUE TO AN INADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FUEL. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: SOFT TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28957. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.