No fatalities

Pilot Lands in Bean Field, Works on Fuel Lines, Then Strikes Ditch During Takeoff (N1828T)

Albion, IL, US

On July 2, 2001, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N1828T) was involved in an aviation accident near Albion, IL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the maintenance performed on the airplane by the unqualified pilot The unsuitable takeoff area selected by the pilot was an additional cause. The ditch was a contributing factor. 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

After landing in a bean field due to a rough-running engine, the pilot worked on the fuel lines with local farmers. Attempting a takeoff from an adjacent gravel road, the engine stumbled, leading to a landing and collision with a ditch.

Incident Overview

The pilot made an initial landing in a bean field after the airplane's engine began running rough. Following the landing, the pilot, accompanied by local farmers, performed work on the airplane's fuel lines.

Subsequent Takeoff Attempt

In an effort to depart, the pilot attempted a takeoff from a gravel road that bordered the bean field. During the takeoff roll, the engine exhibited a "miss" condition. The pilot then maneuvered to land the airplane on the gravel road, but the aircraft subsequently impacted a ditch.

Pilot Information

The pilot involved in the incident did not hold a certificated airframe and powerplant mechanic rating.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jul 2001 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Albion, IL?

After landing in a bean field due to a rough-running engine, the pilot worked on the fuel lines with local farmers. Attempting a takeoff from an adjacent gravel road, the engine stumbled, leading to a landing and collision with a ditch.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Jul 2001 Piper PA-28-140 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jul 2001 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N1828T, at Albion, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the maintenance performed on the airplane by the unqualified pilot The unsuitable takeoff area selected by the pilot was an additional cause. The ditch was a contributing factor.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010710X01353. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.