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Engine Failure During Diversion Leads to Off-Airport Landing (N2325Y)

Bowling Green, KY, US

On December 26, 1992, a Cessna 177 (registration N2325Y) operated by Pettygrove, Jay J. was involved in an aviation accident near Bowling Green, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE INFLIGHT PLANNING AND DECISION WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION AND THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER. 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

Four hours into a flight, the pilot diverted due to fuel gauge reading 1/4. While landing, the engine lost power, and the pilot landed in a field short of the runway. FAA found no fuel in the tanks.

Incident Overview

Approximately four hours into a flight from Greenwood, Illinois, to Nashville, Tennessee, the pilot observed the airplane's fuel gauges indicating that the tanks contained one-quarter of fuel remaining. The pilot decided to divert to Bowling Green, Kentucky, to refuel.

While on the downwind leg for landing at the Bowling Green airport, the airplane's engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot chose to land in a field located about one-quarter of a mile short of the runway.

Post-Incident Examination

After the landing, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the wreckage and found no fuel in the airplane's tanks.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Dec 1992 Cessna 177 accident near Bowling Green, KY?

Four hours into a flight, the pilot diverted due to fuel gauge reading 1/4. While landing, the engine lost power, and the pilot landed in a field short of the runway. FAA found no fuel in the tanks.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Dec 1992 involved a Cessna 177, registration N2325Y, operated by Pettygrove, Jay J., at Bowling Green, KY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE INFLIGHT PLANNING AND DECISION WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION AND THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X16233. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.