Casualties unknown

Low Fuel Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over (N67318)

Kinston, NC, US

On October 25, 1989, a Cessna 152 (registration N67318) was involved in an aviation accident near Kinston, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DECISION TO DEPART FOR HIS DESTINATION AIRPORT WITH LESS THAN REQUIRED FUEL, AND HIS IMPROPER USE OF THE COMMUNICATIONS RADIO WHICH RESULTED IN HIS CIRCLING THE AIRPORT AND EXHAUSTING ALL FUEL. 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 pilot attempting to refuel departed with minimal fuel, experienced engine failure after failing to contact the tower, and nosed over during a forced landing.

Introduction

A small airplane was involved in an accident during a flight intended to obtain fuel. The pilot had departed with only 2 to 3 inches of fuel in each tank for the 21.5-mile trip.

Flight Details

Upon arriving near the destination airport, the pilot was unable to establish contact with the control tower. While attempting to communicate, the pilot recognized that the fuel state had become critically low. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost power and ceased operation.

Forced Landing

The pilot executed a forced landing in a field. During the landing rollout, the airplane nosed over, resulting in damage.

Post-Accident Findings

After the accident, investigators found no fuel remaining in the airplane. Additionally, the communication radios were discovered in the off position.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Oct 1989 Cessna 152 accident near Kinston, NC?

A pilot attempting to refuel departed with minimal fuel, experienced engine failure after failing to contact the tower, and nosed over during a forced landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Oct 1989 involved a Cessna 152, registration N67318, at Kinston, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S DECISION TO DEPART FOR HIS DESTINATION AIRPORT WITH LESS THAN REQUIRED FUEL, AND HIS IMPROPER USE OF THE COMMUNICATIONS RADIO WHICH RESULTED IN HIS CIRCLING THE AIRPORT AND EXHAUSTING ALL FUEL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29534. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.