Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Forced Highway Landing and Collision with Sign (N2386L)

Newburyport, MA, US

On October 15, 1992, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2386L) operated by Beverly Flight Center, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Newburyport, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INACCURATE FUEL CONSUMPTION CALCULATIONS AND IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING, RESULTING IN FUEL EXHAUSTION. 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

During cruise, a pilot observed a low fuel quantity indication, declared an emergency, and requested vectors. The engine quit before landing, forcing a highway landing where the left wing struck a road sign. Investigation found less than one pint of fuel in each sump.

Incident Overview

While in cruise flight, the pilot observed a low fuel quantity indication aboard the aircraft. In response, the pilot declared an emergency and requested radar vectors to land at an airport. However, before reaching the intended airport, the engine ceased operating.

Forced Landing

With the engine inoperative, the pilot executed a forced landing onto a highway. During the landing roll, the left wing of the airplane struck a road sign. The aircraft came to rest on the highway.

Post-Incident Examination

An examination of the airplane conducted by an FAA inspector revealed that each fuel sump contained less than one pint of fuel. No other anomalies were reported.

Probable Cause

The investigation did not state a probable cause.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 1992 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Newburyport, MA?

During cruise, a pilot observed a low fuel quantity indication, declared an emergency, and requested vectors. The engine quit before landing, forcing a highway landing where the left wing struck a road sign. Investigation found less than one pint of fuel in each sump.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 1992 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2386L, operated by Beverly Flight Center, Inc., at Newburyport, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INACCURATE FUEL CONSUMPTION CALCULATIONS AND IMPROPER PREFLIGHT PLANNING, RESULTING IN FUEL EXHAUSTION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15946. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.