Casualties unknown

Agricultural Aircraft Forced Landing After Engine Failure During Spraying Operation (N2877J)

Quitman, GA, US

On August 4, 1991, a Cessna T188C (registration N2877J) operated by Reaves Flying Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Quitman, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO FUEL STARVATION. THE REASON FOR THE FUEL STARVATION WAS NOT DETERMINED. 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

An agricultural airplane experienced an engine failure while spraying a cotton field, necessitating a forced landing. The aircraft collided with trees during the landing roll. Inspection revealed the fuel system was empty except for the wing tanks, with no mechanical anomalies found.

Incident Summary

An agricultural pilot was conducting a spraying operation over a cotton field when the engine suddenly quit. Unable to reach the nearest airport through gliding, the pilot executed a forced landing in a nearby field. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with trees.

Post-Accident Inspection

An inspection of the aircraft was carried out following the accident. The fuel system was found to be completely devoid of fuel, with the exception of the wing tanks. The fuel tank finger screens were clear of obstructions.

Engine Examination

A teardown inspection of the engine and its components was performed. The examination revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure. The engine appeared to have been operating normally prior to the power loss.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17768. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.