Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Low-Altitude Maneuvering Leads to Forced Landing (N2584P)

Greenville, ME, US

On September 2, 1999, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N2584P) was involved in an aviation accident near Greenville, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot in command's inattentive management of the fuel supply. 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

A pilot experienced an engine failure while maneuvering at 300 feet above ground over clear-cut timber after exhausting fuel from the left tank. Switching to the right tank with 12 gallons did not restore power, resulting in a forced landing on a dirt road.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's statement, the flight departed with the fuel selector positioned to the left tank. While maneuvering over an area of clear-cut timber at an altitude of approximately 300 feet above ground level, the engine suddenly stopped producing power. The pilot immediately assessed the situation and realized that the fuel in the left tank had been fully consumed.

Attempted Remedy

The pilot then attempted to switch the fuel selector to the right tank, which still contained about 12 gallons of fuel. However, the engine did not respond to this change and continued to produce no power.

Outcome

With the engine inoperative, the pilot executed a forced landing to a nearby dirt road. The landing was completed without further incident. No additional details were provided regarding any damage, injuries, or subsequent actions.

Pilot Statement

The pilot's report indicates that the engine failure resulted from fuel exhaustion in the selected tank, and that a timely switch to the remaining fuel supply did not restore engine operation under the circumstances.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19857. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.